Brent Prismall is set to makehis return to football this weekend almost 12 months to the day since tearinghis anterior cruciate ligament.

The Essendon midfielder hasn'tplayed since suffering the injury in round 19 last year, but had enjoyed astrong recovery from his knee reconstruction before suffering some hamstringtightness as he ramped up his training in recent months.

He will play for the Bombers' VFL affiliate Bendigo Gold against Sandringham onSaturday at Queen Elizabeth Oval.

Essendon football manager Paul Hamilton confirmed Prismall's return, and saidthe club hoped the 26-year-old would press for selection later in the season.

""We're really happy forBrent, and for us as a club, that he's back playing football,"" Hamilton said.

""It has been a long timeand he's had a tough rehabilitation period. It's just really pleasing to havehim back.

""He'll have to get somematch fitness and form, but then it will be up to him. We'd be hoping he'sgoing to put some performances together and push up for a spot.""

Prismall's return has seen a reshuffle in Essendon's elevated rookie situation.

In February, Prismall was addedto the club's long-term injury list and rookie Cory Dell'Olio was elevated ontothe senior list in his place.

Prismall's return meant Dell'Oliowas momentarily back on the rookie list, but on Wednesday the AFL approvedEssendon's move to place injured defender Luke Davis on the long-term injurylist.

This means Dell'Olio, whokicked two goals in the Bombers' win over Port Adelaide last week, will retainhis senior spot at the expense of Davis.

Hamilton said Davis' ankleinjury – he hasn't played since May – has had some complications.

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