Essendon's key swingman Jake Carlisle says he is optimistic about returning in time for the club's first final next week.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Having had the chance to play in September stripped away by the club's suspension last year, Carlisle says he is determined not to let a hamstring injury do the same this season.
The 22-year-old, who has emerged as one of the Bombers most important players over recent weeks, has been ruled out of Saturday's showdown with arch-rival Carlton at the MCG because of "hamstring tightness" he felt during training on Tuesday.
Carlisle admitted the setback had been tough to handle – knowing it might mean he could not play again this season.
But the high-marking forward maintained he was hopeful of being available for the Bombers' first final, with a sixth-versus-seventh elimination final against North Melbourne the most likely scenario.
"It obviously isn't good news, it will probably will only be a week or two, but I will try and do everything right and see how I go," Carlisle said.
"During training yesterday I was a bit sore and went for a ball a bit far out in front of me then just got tight in the hammy."