Essendon’s matches in the NAB Challenge will go ahead, with the AFL possibly announcing details later on Friday.
The league’s operations manager Mark Evans said on Friday morning that they did not expect any changes to the pre-season fixture.
It seems certain that all 25 current players who were on Essendon’s list in 2012 will sit out at least their first two Challenge matches to protect the anonymity of those whose cases are currently before the AFL anti-doping tribunal.
The verdicts surrounding the long-running Essendon supplements scandal will likely be known in late March.
About 18 current Essendon players are said to be involved in the hearing.
If they are found guilty, playing in the NAB Challenge would mean they could not backdate any suspensions to late last year.
Essendon said earlier this week they would need up to 20 top-up players for their opening pre-season game on March 7 against St Kilda in Morwell.
Bombers chief executive Xavier Campbell said the club wants to play the games as scheduled.
“We’re continuing to work with the AFL around what participation in the NAB (Challenge) looks like,” he said.
“It’s obviously been a really difficult and complicated issue.
“It’s not as black and white as playing and not playing.
“Our preference is obviously to play.”
He said there were complicated issues surrounding the top-up players.
Campbell also hit back at Carlton coach Mick Malthouse and Collingwood counterpart Nathan Buckley.
The pair called on the AFL to be strong in their negotiations with Essendon.
Campbell said Essendon did not comment on what happens at other clubs.
“When you don’t have the inside information, you make misguided comments,” he said.
Campbell was hopeful there would be a resolution “sooner rather than later”.
Essendon also play GWS in Sydney on March 13 and then Melbourne on March 20 at Etihad Stadium.