The Western Bulldogs have added over 420 games of experience to the squad to take on Essendon on Sunday, headlined by the return of Captain Ryan Griffen.

After being withdrawn from the Gold Coast clash, the Bulldogs skipper has been cleared to play against the Bombers, while Adam Cooney and Tom Campbell round out the inclusions.

FULL SQUADS: View the full extended squads for the Western Bulldogs clash against Essendon on Sunday.

Cooney is poised to play his first game since injuring his hamstring in round 13 against Collingwood and will add experience and run to the team.

Assistant Coach Shannon Grant said having Griffen and Cooney back in the side will further strengthen the Club’s midfield contingent.

“They are both absolutely great players and they have been for a long period of time,” Grant said.

“So any time you get class with those two players coming in and their ability to run and carry the footy and break the lines and play in a number of different positions for us will certainly add to our flexibility over the course of the day.”

Campbell has been named on an extended bench, after showing consistent form in the VFL team this season.

The Western Bulldogs will go head-to-head with Essendon in a twilight clash at Etihad Stadium on Sunday 20 July 2014, as part of the AFL’s annual Multicultural round.

Round 18 - Western Bulldogs vs Essendon

Sunday 20 July 2014, 4:40pm

Venue: Etihad Stadium