A RECURRENCE of a quad injury will see Essendon key defender Patrick Ambrose spend more time on the sidelines.

Before Wednesday's training mishap, the 25-year-old was a chance to play his first game since round five in Saturday's clash with Greater Western Sydney at Spotless Stadium.

Bombers' captain Dyson Heppell told SEN on Friday morning it was disappointing news with Ambrose so close to a senior return.

"Paddy did have a little niggle at training yesterday, and they're going to (check) the extent of that in the coming days," Heppell said.

"He was in some ripping form prior to doing that quad, and we're really looking forward to having him back.

"Hopefully it's nothing major and he'll be right to go in a few weeks."

After starting his AFL career as a forward, Ambrose has been a revelation down back in recent times.

The former rookie's good form was rewarded last month with a two-year contract extension.