WEST Coast's most celebrated son says he's not thinking about the club's past or present as he tries to beat it for the first time.

On Thursday night, John Worsfold will coach Essendon against the side he led to two flags on the field and another as coach.

It's the third premiership, won in 2006, that's in the spotlight this week as the club hosts a 10-year reunion on Friday night.

But that reunion might as well be a lifetime away for Worsfold, who heads west insisting it will feel "no different" to other matches he has faced as Bombers boss.

"I'm not focused on reunions. I'm looking forward to a great challenge on Thursday night," Worsfold told reporters on Wednesday.

Worsfold's attention on his ailing Dons side precluded much thought for fallen star Ben Cousins.

Asked whether he was concerned the Brownlow medalist would never make a full recovery from his well-documented issues with addiction, Worsfold offered well-wishes but no introspection, saying he was "no expert in that area".

"We don't like to see anyone ill and we hope he makes a full recovery," he said.

Worsfold and Essendon, it seems, are keen to keep the focus on football as they begin their assault on the second half of the year.

With 11 straight defeats leading into last weekend's bye, Worsfold said the next three months were effectively try-outs for season 2017.

"The second half of the year is more opportunities. More opportunities for guys to say they want to be part of the best 22 going forward," he said.

Worsfold judged defender Matt Dea likely to return for a sore Patrick Ambrose against the Eagles, with Shaun McKernan, Sam Michael, Jake Long, Jayden Laverde and Kyle Langford waiting for an chance from the VFL.

The Eagles have a shorter injury list but with a much bigger name on top.

Nic Naitanui's (achilles) absence gives Scott Lycett another chance to impress as the No.1 ruckman with long-term absentee Dom Sheed (pectoral) preparing to resume in the WAFL.