Former Essendon chairman David Evans has made his first move towards reconnecting with the club since his dramatic decision to step aside as chairman four years ago at the height of the traumatic drugs affair.

Evans arrived unannounced two weeks ago at an intra-club practice match as another face in the crowd at the Tullamarine home that he, more than any other, was responsible for constructing.

Essendon's then chairman David Evans, centre, with chief executive Ian Robson, left, and coach James Hird in February 2013. Credit:Wayne Taylor

It was a return as understated as it was unexpected. Those at the practice match were surprised and pleased to see the former chairman and scion of one of Essendon's most significant families standing among the crowd.

It was a sight that was welcome and warmly received by the Bombers, who have sought this year to reach out to fans and return normality to the club.