Essendon supporters can breath a collective sigh of relief with news that skipper James Hird is certain to line-up against Collingwood in next Tuesday's Anzac Day clash.
Hird left the field late in the second quarter against the Bulldogs suffering from bruised kidneys.
Despite not returning for the remainder of the match, medical staff confirmed this week that the damage to Hird was not serious and that he would recover in time for the clash with Collingwood.
And the senior side could make as many as three changes for its round seven clash despite comfortably accounting for the Bulldogs last weekend.
Mark Mercuri (strained buttock) is expected to join in full-scale training tomorrow night and press for selection against the Magpies.
Mercuri strained the muscle against Carlton and missed last weekend's match against the Bulldogs.
The club is also hopeful that inspirational vice captain Michael Long will also make his return against Collingwood.
Long has missed the past two matches against Hawthorn because of a badly corked hip.
Paul Barnard is the other player who will be looking to force his way back into the side. He missed last week because of a cut foot but he has now completely healed and will be available for selection.
Training tomorrow night is at Windy Hill and will commence at 3.30pm.
