Essendon’s lengthy injury list could be reduced by three this week.

Paul Chapman, Adam Cooney and Alex Browne are expected to be available for selection.

Chapman has been sidelined with an adductor problem since the match against West Coast in round 11.

“We expect Chappy to play this week,” Club Doctor Bruce Reid said.

“He had some adductor tendonitis without osteitis pubis, so we’re just trying to settle it down so he can have a real crack at the last six or seven weeks.”

Adam Cooney could return after overcoming a hamstring complaint and Alex Browne has recovered from a head knock suffered against Melbourne.

“His symptoms persisted, just vague stuff – minor headache, tiredness until Wednesday so we ruled him out but he’s been really good since about last Thursday,” Dr Reid said.

Jason Winderlich is nearing a return from a shin injury.

He is a chance to play this week or next.

Orazio Fantasia and Nick Kommer will both miss at least another week because of thigh injuries.

Heath Hocking is back training after a lower back problem and the midfielder could return to playing next week.

Jake Melksham is also in line to return from a hamstring injury next week, but David Myers is still a fortnight away.

“He had what we call ITB friction syndrome,” Dr Reid said.

“That was released two weeks ago, we expect him back in two weeks.”

Jake Carlisle is back on the training track and is set to return from an ankle problem in two to three weeks.