ESSENDON expects to regain full-back Dustin Fletcher for Saturday's match against Collingwood, and is relatively optimistic about the prospect of Andrew Welsh recovering from concussion in time for the MCG clash.

But, Angus Monfries remains doubtful despite having only minor ligament damage in his foot and young forward Jay Neagle is set for season-ending ankle surgery. This leaves the Bombers with a list of only 26 fit players, and the option of elevating another rookie, Danny Chartres.

Coach Matthew Knights said there was no reason to panic, and no reason to end Andrew Lovett's club-imposed suspension a week early. Nor did he emulate his predecessor, Kevin Sheedy, in launching a compassionate campaign for an expanded interchange bench after his team was reduced to 19 men against Richmond.

"In my mind it is a war of attrition, an AFL season," Knight said.