Essendon coach Matthew Knights says ruckman David Hille will be fit to play in Friday night's big AFL clash against the in-form Western Bulldogs.

Hille spent time off the ground during last Saturday's high-scoring win over Carlton after being troubled by a pinched nerve in his neck.

"I expect David will play," Knights said.

"When he came off the ground I was concerned because David is a very important player for us.

"He's been in good consistent form.

"It was a pinched nerve in the neck that has come up well this week so I would expect him to train this morning and play on Friday night."

Speedster Nathan Lovett-Murray is also a chance to return to the Essendon senior side on Friday after one week on the sidelines with a groin complaint, provided he gets through Tuesday's training session.

But utility Andrew Welsh will be required to come back through the club's VFL affiliate Bendigo after hamstring problems.

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