PAUL CHAPMAN could miss a fortnight with the groin injury he sustained in Essendon's Anzac Day loss to Collingwood.

The Bomber veteran was subbed out in the third quarter of last Saturday’s game, and coach James Hird isn't sure how long Chapman’s recovery will take. 

"He's got a sore groin," Hird confirmed to reporters at Tullamarine on Friday. 

"He'll miss this week definitely, and potentially the week after, we're not sure," the coach said. 

The first Bomber to debut this season will run out against St Kilda on Sunday when Kyle Langford comes into the team.

The 18-year-old was recruited with pick No.17 from the Northern Knights in last year's NAB AFL Draft.

Hird said he was excited to give the young half-forward an opportunity. 

"All Essendon supporters will see a classy player, who wins the football for himself and knows how to use it," he said.   

Hird played down the Dons’ inability to win a final quarter so far this season. 

"I don't think anything's going wrong, we haven't played as well in our last quarters as we have in our first three," Hird said.

"We're not too worried about them, we're sure we'll win a final quarter soon. 

Hird said he didn't expect any mental let-down following the Anzac Day build-up, declaring after an eight-day break there'd be 'no excuses.'

The coach said he had been impressed by St Kilda's pressure and intensity, which has surprised many early this season. 

He conceded the absence of Nick Riewoldt and Leigh Montagna through injury was definitely helpful to the Bombers.

The Saints surprised Essendon in round five last year at Etihad Stadium, scoring an upset 16-point win with Riewoldt kicking five goals and Montagna notching 31 disposals.