Zach Merrett has made his first appearance back at Essendon after failing in his bid to be traded to Hawthorn.

The incumbent captain was a no-show on day one earlier this week, when only first-to-fourth-year players were required and he remained interstate following a wedding.

But his absence did 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 Andrew McGrath was there, along with fellow senior players Mason Redman, Kyle Langford, Jordan Ridley, Ben McKay and Peter Wright.

Merrett, 30, did not train on Wednesday but underwent pre-season medical screening and saw the club physios.

He is likely to return to the track this week, with teammates adamant he will be welcomed back with open arms despite t

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