Loading

Daniher hasn't played an AFL match for the best part of a year after battling osteitis pubis. Credit:AAP

Essendon star Joe Daniher remains a chance of making his long-awaited AFL return in the Anzac Day blockbuster against Collingwood but the spearhead will begin his comeback through the VFL this weekend.

The Age understands the Bombers have made the decision to play Daniher in the reserves in Saturday morning's VFL clash with North Melbourne at Werribee.

Reigning best-and-fairest Devon Smith is also in some doubt to play in the Good Friday marquee match against North Melbourne, after missing the team's main training session this week with what is believed to be knee soreness.

The Bombers aren't panicking about Smith, who remains a chance to play, but are aware of the short turnaround between the game against the Kangaroos and next Thursday's Anzac Day fixture.