MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 12: (L-R) Michael Hurley, Joe Daniher and Orazio Fantasia of the Bombers look on during the Essendon Bombers training session at The Hangar on January 12, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Joe Daniher is set to play his first game since round nine last season, with the Bombers confirming his selection for their Thursday night clash against Hawthorn,  per Fox Sports.

The 26-year-old has been riddled with groin and calf injuries and could be set to come into the side despite not featuring in a scratch match, with coach John Worsfold confirming his inclusion on Wednesday.

"Joe Daniher will come in to play Hawthorn tomorrow night. He’s worked incredibly hard and built up his loads over the past month to the point where he’s now ready to go," Worsfold said.

Bombers skipper Dyson Heppell said he was excited for the return of their prized forward.

“He’s getting there. He had an awesome training session about three days ago and he moved really, really well,” he said.

“I think that’s the best I’ve seen him move for quite a while and he’s pulling up really well so hopefully he can progress over the next few weeks and we can get him out on the park. It would be bloody nice to see him out there.”

The Bombers will need a major lift in their run home, with a six-point differential separating them from the top eight.

Essendon will be forward Orazio Fantasia for six weeks, while they're set to welcome back speedster Conor McKenna and key defender Cale Hooker for the must-win clash against the Hawks.

Daniher, a restricted free agent, was a name tossed around in last years trade window, with the Swans looking to lure the exciting forward.

The Bombers are hoping they can retain their father-son selection for a contract extension of any length.