Essendon’s former number six draft pick Aaron Francis is back in the frame for senior selection after being included in the squad to take on the Lions this Sunday.
Francis has been toiling away in the VFL for the last few weeks and after taking a break from football earlier this year, is finally nearing full fitness.
Worsfold said on Thursday morning that he is now being talked about by Essendon’s selection committee.
"Aaron’s getting to that point now where his match-hardened fitness is just about at the required level and his form’s looking pretty solid,” he told reporters.
“Definitely, his name is now talked about what role he could possibly play for us.
“Ultimately, our first aim was that we just want to see a happy young man regardless of footy and we’ve been seeing that, so that’s been great.
“He’s also a talented young footballer and he does love playing footy, so that was the next part of it; getting back where he’s playing good footy."
During last year’s trade period, Francis requested a trade back to South Australia but the Bombers couldn’t get a deal done.
The young swingman took personal leave for mental health from the club in February and spent some time coaching local basketball and working.
There is no question over Francis being a talented footballer, but it’s believed fitness has been his barrier to playing regular senior football.
In his third year at Essendon, the 20-year-old has only played five AFL games, but the club have hopes he will add more to that tally this year.
The Bombers are looking to get their season back on track at the Gabba this weekend.