ESSENDON has copped a double blow for Thursday night's clash with Carlton, with both Jayden Laverde and Sam Durham late outs.

Zak Johnson comes in for his first game since the Bombers' round 20 loss to the Western Bulldogs, and Saad El-Hawli earns a reprieve after being dropped during the week.

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Durham has played almost every game this season, only missing two weeks following a suspension for a hit on Carlton's Adam Cerra back in round 13.

Meanwhile, the loss of Laverde - who was substituted out of last week's match against St Kilda with a 'nasty' corky - hurts given the form of key Blue Harry McKay, who kicked seven goals in the Blues' big win over Port Adelaide last week.

Johnson will serve as the substitute, while Lucas Camporeale has been named as Carlton's sub.

The Blues will be aiming for back-to-back wins to finish its season when it takes on Essendon at the MCG on Thursday night.

The Blues were far too good for Port Adelaide last week to claim their eighth win of a disappointing 2025.

While Carlton will wrap up its season, the Bombers have two games left to play, with their trip to the Gold Coast to come on Wednesday.

Essendon captain Zach Merrett will make his return to play his 250th AFL game, while veteran Dylan Shiel is set to play one last game in front of the Essendon faithful.

The Blues have recalled young midfielder Lucas Camporeale for his first game since round two, with forward Will White also returning.

Injured duo Lachie Fogarty and Cooper Lord drop out of the side, while the match will be the 100th for free agent Tom De Koning, who is considering a move to St Kilda in the off-season.

Essendon v Carlton at the MCG, 7.30pm AEST

LATE CHANGES
Essendon: Jayden Laverde and Sam Durham replaced in selected side by Zak Johnson and Saad El-Hawli

SUBSTITUTES
Essendon: Zak Johnson
Carlton: Lucas Camporeale