ESSENDON midfielder David Zaharakis has missed training through illness.

Zaharakis was expected to front a scheduled media opportunity on Tuesday morning, but the club said he was ill and went home.

It's not clear if he's in any doubt for this week's game.

Essendon plays the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The Bombers are 14th on the ladder with just five wins for the season.

More to come