THERE has been a bit going on at Essendon this week, but much of it is off the field.

Veteran Brendan Goddard was notified he won’t be offered another contract with the Bombers and he will play his last game for the club against Port Adelaide on Friday night.

The 33-year-old hasn’t given up hope of playing on elsewhere.

The Bombers also notified speedy midfielder Jackson Merrett he wouldn’t be continuing at the club beyond this season.

Ruckman Tom Bellchambers won’t feature against the Power after having shoulder surgery on Monday night.

But there’s better news for speedster Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti who has been given the all clear after suffering a minor ankle sprain and leaving the field against Richmond last week.

Defender Ben McNiece, who was withdrawn from that game due to a minor knee injury, will undergo a fitness test to prove he is able to take his place in the side.

Jordan Ridley, James Stewart and Dylan Clarke are all possible inclusions for Friday night’s blockbuster having performed strongly in the VFL in recent weeks.

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