AFL Injury Updates: Bombers and Magpies Face Key Player Changes

The AFL season is nearing its conclusion, and injury updates are impacting team lineups as players prepare for the finals. Essendon midfielder Sam Durham will not participate in the last game against Port Adelaide due to ongoing groin soreness, having last played in Round 22.

In contrast, teammate Zach Merrett is expected to play despite sustaining a facial injury. A victory for the Bombers could help them avoid finishing at the bottom of the standings. Meanwhile, Collingwood is optimistic about the potential return of defenders Jeremy Howe, Brayden Maynard, and Steele Sidebottom for their match against Brisbane, pending assessments after Wednesday's training.

Additionally, Isaac Quaynor will miss the upcoming game due to a minor glute injury, while Sam Collins will also be sidelined with a rib injury. On a positive note, Adelaide's Wayne Milera is on track to return after missing three matches due to a hamstring injury, which could bolster the team's efforts to secure a top-six finish.