Essendon ruckman Shaun McKernan has tested negative for coronavirus but remains in doubt for this weekend’s match against Fremantle due to illness, according to The Age.
McKernan spent time away from training this week after experiencing cold-like symptoms, with the Bombers taking extreme caution due to the current coronavirus climate.
The report states he hasn’t yet been ruled out of the club’s round one clash on Saturday afternoon against the Dockers at Marvel Stadium.
If the versatile 29-year-old misses, it would be another blow to Essendon forward half which is already missing Joe Daniher, who is out indefinitely with a groin issue.
Tom Bellchambers, James Stewart, David Zaharakis and Mitch Hibberd are all available after battling injury in pre-season but captain Dyson Heppell remain and Cale Hooker remain on the sidelines.
After a series of slow starts in the past few seasons, Essendon will be looking to get off to a winning note after the league confirmed round one would be played as scheduled following a series of marathon meetings on Wednesday afternoon.