Bomber Caddy to face Hawks after heart scare; McKay out for Blues

Essendon's interim coach Dean Solomon confirmed that young forward Nate Caddy is cleared to play in Saturday's match against Hawthorn, having recovered from an elevated heart rate scare during last Sunday's game.

Caddy was taken to hospital after experiencing the issue during the three-point win over GWS but was released after receiving medical all-clear. Solomon expressed full trust in the club's medical staff, stating that Caddy has a good understanding of the situation and feels confident. "He'll be good to go," Solomon said. "They said there's no risk with what happened and he's fully good to go."

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He'll be good to go. They said there's no risk with what happened and he's fully good to go. I trust our medical staff, and Nate's in a good headspace as well.

Meanwhile, Carlton forward Harry McKay will be sidelined for the match against Gold Coast due to a knee injury. McKay suffered a minor meniscus tear and bone bruising during Saturday night's loss to Collingwood. He was forced from the field early in that game after his knee collided with teammate Sam Walsh.

Speculation arose regarding McKay's injury, with Fox Footy commentator David King questioning the forward's condition. The Blues organization was reportedly angered by criticism of McKay's character before the severity of his injury was confirmed. Interim Blues coach Josh Fraser dismissed the commentary, emphasizing the club's focus on player care and support. "We act on the information we're given from our medical team, the commentary around all of that, I probably push it to the side," Fraser stated.

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We act on the information we're given from our medical team, the commentary around all of that, I probably push it to the side.