ESSENDON midfielder Dyson Heppell is optimistic he'll be fit to take part in the club's high altitude training camp in Colorado in December, as he continues his recovery from late-season foot surgery.
The 21-year-old went under the knife to repair a crack in his foot after the Bombers' round 22 win over Carlton in August.
He spent three weeks in a moon boot, and until recently had been restricted to bike and pool work while his rehabilitation progressed.
But, having resumed running as the club's first to fourth-year players arrived back for the start of pre-season training this week, Heppell is confident he'll be ready for the journey to the US.
"I'm hoping to make it on the trip – I'm pencilled in at the moment," Heppell told essendonfc.com.au.
"I see the surgeon on the 18th [of November].
"I'll get a scan then, and if everything looks clear then I'll be right to go."
Heppell said his initial transition back into running had been successful.
"It's been pulling up really well after sessions," he said.
"I'm looking forward to getting back into things with the boys."
The Bombers sent 10 players to Colorado last year, and this time will take an expanded group of 25-26 players after winning flights in a Virgin Australia competition.
They will train at Colorado University in Boulder.
The trip runs from 30 November until 15 December.
