The AFL is expected to argue the anti-doping tribunal case involving 34 current and former Essendon players be open, placing the league at odds with the AFL Players' Association.

The players want the tribunal hearing, expected to be held next month, to be closed to the public and media to protect the confidentiality of the players. The names of the 34 players charged with being administered thymosin beta-4 in 2012 have yet to be publicly released.

Open case: The AFL wants the anti-doping tribunal hearings to be open to the public. Credit:Getty Images

However, it's understood the AFL would prefer the hearing - before a panel of three, including chairman David Jones, a former County Court judge - be open because it is of public interest. They are set to argue this at a directions hearing before Jones on Tuesday. There is also a view that an open hearing would mean all evidence and statements would be accurately recorded.

The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority's case involving former St Kilda forward Ahmed Saad was held behind closed doors.