McVeigh Battling Infection

Essendon cheap $268k midfielder Mark McVeigh appears unlikely to play next weekend after being hospitalised with an infected arm.

McVeigh, who had a troubled 2009, is owned by almost 14,000 DT coaches.

Bombers coach Matthew Knights said: “Mark is still struggling a little bit.

"His fever has come down but he's obviously still in recovery mode and he'll be in hospital until he feels good enough to come out.

“It's not an ideal preparation for the week ahead and we've just got to monitor that with our medical staff and Mark as the week goes on.”

When asked if McVeigh was a chance to play Knights was cool in response.

“It is probably tough to say at the moment," he said. "If he stays in hospital for another day or two it is probably unlikely, but if he gets out this afternoon we'll have a look at it.

"It's just one of those scenarios. We'll make a decision on that probably tomorrow.”