Essendon midfielder Ryan Crowley could be in line to return for the Bombers’ trip to Adelaide to confront the Crows on Sunday.

Crowley, who has not played at AFL level since injuring his hamstring in Round 11 against former side Fremantle, could be recalled to help quell Adelaide’s midfield, led by in-form onballer Rory Sloane.

The former Docker has impressed in the VFL since his return from injury and was one of Essendon’s best in their loss to Geelong’s VFL outfit on the weekend. Crowley collected 24 touches (12 contested) at 80 per cent efficiency and also kicked a goal. It followed another strong performance the previous week against Box Hill.

Fellow top-up player Jonathan Simpkin may also be in line for senior selection after collecting a game-high 35 disposals in the same match.

Simpkin, who joined the Bombers from Hawthorn prior to the start of the 2016 season, has not played at AFL level since injuring his hamstring in Round Seven against Sydney.

Essendon will also be buoyed by the performance of Aaron Francis, who was solid in his AFL debut against Brisbane.

The 18-year-old defender, who was selected with pick No.6 in last year’s National Draft, competed hard in the air and collected three intercept marks in the first half alone, impressing Essendon coach John Worsfold.

"I thought he showed some really good signs. There's areas of his game that we know he's got to get a lot better at, but his ability to take a mark is really top-notch already," Worsfold said.

"If his form warrants it, he'll remain in the team, and I would guess get a lot more opportunities at both ends throughout the remainder of this year."

Spearhead Joe Daniher booted four majors but also copped an elbow to the face in the loss to the Lions.

Worsfold anticipates the 22-year old will be fine to take on the Crows this weekend.

“I’m not sure if he did (see a dentist) or not but he certainly got a whack to the teeth,” Worsfold said.

“I don’t know if he wears a mouthguard, I would be horrified if he doesn’t. Some players elect not to, I just can’t fathom the risk they know they’re taking.”