Essendon's key swingman Jake Carlisle says he is optimistic about returning in time for the club's first final next week.
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."