INJURY-PRONE Collingwood midfielder Daniel Wells has successfully navigated his first full VFL game this season, after battling hamstring and achilles soreness this summer.

Wells had 21 disposals, five tackles and kicked a stunning goal in Collingwood's 28-point win over Essendon at Victoria Park.

Speaking to Channel 7 post-match, he couldn't yet put a timeline on his AFL return.

"I was glad to get through today and get the full game under my belt," Wells said.

"We've got a process with the physios, hopefully I'll get through today and the next few days, enjoy the win and look forward to the [AFL] boys on Wednesday."

Alex Fasolo worked his way into the match to finish with four goals as he continues to build match fitness following a pre-season interrupted by shoulder surgery.

Josh Daicos also kicked two goals for the Magpies, as senior coach Nathan Buckley looked on.

The match also saw the return of young Essendon defender Aaron Francis, who took personal leave from the club in February to deal with his mental health.

Francis played fairly limited game time, but his reading of the play and intercept marking stood out in the opening half. He finished with six disposals.

Jayden Laverde was one of the Bombers' best, while Jackson Merrett could be in line for an AFL recall after being withdrawn late before the game.

Essendon play on Wednesday (Anzac Day) and then on Sunday, which may have been behind the unusual management of Jake Long, who didn't take to the field until the dying minutes of the second quarter.