Mercurial Bomber Jake Stringer is understood to be battling a groin injury that has kept him away from main training just over a month out from Round 1.
Essendon have been dealt a number of setbacks this pre-season, with livewire Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti currently placed on indefinite leave following a calf injury that has riddled his preparations for the 2022 season.
Young Bombers Zach Reid (foot) and Archie Perkins (calf) have also battled injuries in the new year, with Stringer the latest to be a member of the casualty ward at Tullamarine.
According to multiple reports, Stringer was kept away from the main group at training on Thursday as he took on lighter duties.
SEE ALSO: Bombers recruit among the top five underrated signings
Jake Stringer dealing with a groin complaint.
Rest of the midfield stocked at the moment. Shiel/Merrett/Parish/Caldwell/McGrath/Hobbs enjoying CB rotations in A team early. Merrett/McGrath bit of time at HB… others rotating HF.
Mostly wing for Heppell/Cox https://t.co/wmStNer3eX— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) February 10, 2022
The 27-year-old enjoyed his best season in the red sash last year, booting 41 goals from his 19 appearances.
Stringer was sidelined with hamstring and calf injuries in 2021, missing the opening two matches of the year before facing another fortnight out with injury in the middle of the year.
The lively forward/midfield utility has faced a number of soft tissue setbacks across the course of his 157-game career, however there has been no indication his latest injury will keep him out of Ben Rutten's side for the start of the home and away season.
Midfielder
Disposals
Goals
Clearances
The Bombers will begin their 2022 campaign against Geelong at the MCG on Saturday, March 19, with two pre-season matches against the Bulldogs and Saints.
