> Watch Paul Medhurst address the media before the mid-week training session

COLLINGWOOD forward Paul Medhurst hopes his “scratchy first half” won't cost him his place in Collingwood's side for Friday night's blockbuster against Essendon.

Speaking before training at Gosch's Paddock on Tuesday, Medhurst said midfielder Leon Davis was certain to return while teammate Scott Pendlebury was also a chance to take on the Bombers.

Davis was a late withdrawal against Fremantle with a virus, while Pendlebury missed with a knee ligament strain.

Asked whether he believed he had done enough to keep his spot in the side this week Medhurst said, “I hope so”.

“We have Leon and probably Scotty Pendlebury to come back in, so someone has to make way,” he said.

Both Davis and Pendlebury appeared on the track at training, but Pendlebury took little part in ball work.

Forward Alan Didak was a notable absentee, but he is not believed to be in any doubt for this week.

Medhurst admitted 2009 has been a frustrating year for him. A runner-up in last year’s Copeland Trophy, he has managed just seven matches following a back injury over the summer and an ankle problem earlier this season.

But time on the injured list has allowed him to sit back and watch some teammates take centre stage.

“It’s been enjoyable to watch a few guys develop, but in the same breath you’re itching to get back in,” he said.

Davis’ last-minute withdrawal against Fremantle at the weekend opened the door, and Medhurst felt he started to regain his touch towards the end of the match as the Magpies turned up the heat on the visitors.

“There was plenty of supply there in the last quarter and I got myself into a little bit of form,” he said.