Essendon could blood another exciting top 10 draft selection with Aaron Francis showing exciting glimpses in the Bombers' 23-point win over Richmond at Punt Road Oval on Saturday.

In his second consecutive match on return from a calf injury – in which he was sidelined for five weeks – Francis showed terrific awareness and courage, taking nine intercept marks, along with 21 disposals.

Young Bomber Aaron Francis. Credit:Getty Images

It didn't take long for Francis to have an impact on the match, as he looked at ease across half-back from the opening bounce.

His mark, going back with the flight of the ball, in the third term was a major highlight for Bombers fans. Some of his ground work was just as impressive as his aerial work.