Essendon mid-fielder Justin Blumfield is certain to take on Carlton this weekend. Blumfield was a late withdrawal from the Essendon side that took on Fremantle yesterday because of a bruised knee. ""He actually trained quite well last Friday but we just wanted to be absolutely sure so we decided to give him an extra week,"" Essendon football manager Matthew Drain said. ""We expect him to get through training this week and be available for selection.""

In other injury news, Steve Alessio played a half of football in the VFL and will be considered for selection this week. Mark Mercuri is also expected to be available for selection having missed the past eight matches with a groin injury. He will face a fitness test later this week. Aaron Henneman is also expected to complete a full week of training and be available for selection. Jordan Bannister will miss one week after injuring his ankle in Saturday's VFL clash with Bendigo.