Dogs take long-term approach with Darcy

The Western Bulldogs have confirmed that injured father-son recruit Sam Darcy is months away from starting his AFL career.

The son of Bulldogs great Luke Darcy was diagnosed with a navicular bone stress injury in his foot late last year.

Darcy, 18, was recruited in last November's national draft and the Bulldogs have given an update on his injury a day out from their opening pre-season game against Essendon at Tullarmarine.

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"Given Sam is a developing young athlete with a bright future, we want to make sure that we are conservative in his management and take our time to build a resilient and durable athlete," Bulldogs sports medicine boss Chris Bell said.

"The management plan in place for Sam will have a long-term approach, and the club will confirm whether this involves playing games in the second half of the season once we accurately track progress over the coming months."

The Bulldogs and Essendon have named strong squads for Wednesday's game, although the Dogs will be without Bailey Smith (groin), Alex Keath (back) and Hawthorn recruit Tim O'Brien (hamstring).

Bombers first-round draft pick Ben Hobbs and Adelaide recruit Jake Kelly were named in Essendon's squad.

But they will be without ruckman Andrew Phillips (adductor) and Jake Stringer (groin), while Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti remains on indefinite leave.

Also on Tuesday, Essendon confirmed their 2022 leadership group, with Dyson Heppell to captain them for a sixth season.

Zach Merrett will be vice-captain and Andy McGrath is deputy vice-captain.

Michael Hurley is out of the leadership group as he continues to recover from his long-term hip injury.