ESSENDON has been fined $20,000 for its late inclusion of Joe Daniher for the Good Friday clash with North Melbourne.

Daniher, who was not named as an emergency for the match, was brought into the side for Zac Clarke, who suffered a calf bleed on the night before the game.

Essendon won by 58 points, with Daniher, who was playing his first game in almost a year after osteitis pubis and calf issues, kicking two goals.

The club's football manager, Dan Richardson, said on Friday, "We notified both North Melbourne and the AFL as soon as possible and we thank them for their understanding. 

"It was our intention for Joe to play in the VFL this week.

"With injuries to (Shaun) McKernan and (James) Stewart, structurally for our side today, we had to look at the key forward position so the decision was made.

"While unavoidable, the club accepts the AFL's ruling on this decision and the financial sanction it will impose as a result."

The AFL announced the fine on Wednesday morning.