Essendon have been fined $20,000 by the AFL over Joe Daniher’s surprise late inclusion for their 58-point win over North Melbourne.

The AFL confirmed the Bombers had been sanctioned for playing Daniher on Good Friday despite not naming the returning forward on their initial 26-man list.

The 25-year-old replaced Zac Clarke, who was ruled out with a corked calf, in Essendon’s line-up for the round five match against the Kangaroos.

Daniher, who has overcome groin and calf injuries, booted two goals and had 10 possessions in his first AFL appearance since round seven last season.