The guessing game about Joe Daniher's return continues, with the Essendon spearhead not ruling out playing again this AFL season.
The All-Australian hasn't played since round seven as he battles osteitis pubis, but the star forward is trying to get back for the final two games as the Bombers' finals hopes remain alive.
Essendon sits 11th on the ladder but victories over Richmond and Port Adelaide could propel them into September for a second straight season if results go their way.
Bombers coach John Worsfold said in July that Daniher was "miles off" being available, but the 24-year-old is determined to feature again in 2018.
"I'm still pushing to get back as quick as possible and hopefully sneak in a game this year," Daniher said in Canberra on Tuesday.
"But I've also got next year in mind and coming back fit and healthy for pre-season and getting stuck into that."
The 200cm Daniher barely missed a game after becoming a regular member of the Essendon team in 2014 until struggling with the dreaded groin issue this year.
After his 65-goal last season earned him his first All-Australian berth, Daniher was restricted to eight majors this year before the call was made in May to rest.
"I've been very fortunate to not have to spend too much time on the sidelines before," Daniher said.
"I'm hoping this break for me will be a good chance to just freshen up and hopefully in the next 100-odd games are played reasonably consistently."
The Bombers are sweating on fitness tests to veteran Brendon Goddard, Cale Hooker (both knee) and Adam Saad (concussion) as they look to end Richmond's dominance at the MCG on Friday night.
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