Zach Merrett was a no-show at the first day of Essendon’s pre-season as the Bombers remain adamant their captain will be welcomed back with open arms.

Current skipper Merrett is almost certain to give up the captaincy, or have it taken from him, after his failed attempt to join fierce rivals Hawthorn despite having two more years on his contract.

The Hawks didn’t come up with a trade offer to satisfy Essendon for their six-time best and fairest winner.

Merrett, 30, was under no obligation to attend Monday’s training, which was technically for first-to-fourth-year players, and was reportedly away at a wedding interstate.

But Monday’s absence does break the norm for a standard-setting player who would usually be there for the opening day of pre-season.

Vice-captain and heir apparent A

See Full Page