Essendon midfielder Andrew McGrath will be given every possibility to prove his fitness for the club's 150th anniversary match against Carlton on Friday night, while head coach Ben Rutten is confident in Jake Stringer's ability to return strongly this weekend.
McGrath's selection doubt follows a groin problem suffered during a match simulation at training over Essendon's Round 12 bye.
Meanwhile, Stringer has not lined up for the Bombers after sustaining a hamstring injury in Round 7.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Essendon head coach Ben Rutten said the club were "not sure yet (about McGrath)".
"Weโll wait on that and make a final call on that," he continued.
"He just had a bit of a hiccup last Saturday at training so we will give him every chance.
BR: Stringerโs back, Redman and Guelfi too. Weโre not sure on McGrath, but weโll give him every chance.
— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) June 9, 2022
"He just needs to be confident that he is fit and ready to perform.
"Weโll make the right decision on that tomorrow."
Rutten was confident in Stringer's preparations and readiness to perform on Friday night.
"The week off came at a good time for us to be able to get some continuity in his training the last two and half weeks now,โ Rutten said.
"Heโs in good condition, well prepared and ready to go."
Stringer's inclusion is expected to be a much needed boost for Essendon, who sit at two wins and nine losses so far this season. The side find themselves sitting 16th on the ladder, further mounting pressure on Rutten.
Although, Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell said this morning that Rutten was "absolutely" the right man for the coaching job.
The Bombers face Carlton at the MCG on Friday night (7:50pm) in the first of three consecutive Friday night appearances.
