Essendon appear to be close to accepting a deal from the AFL to be stripped of premiership points and miss out on a place in next month’s final series over their use of supplements.

Bombers’ chairman Paul Little released a statement to members on the club’s website on Friday apologising for mistakes made concerning governance issues and hinting the matter could be resolved very soon.

Essendon coach James Hird and three other club officials have been charged with bringing the league into disrepute.

Hird wants AFL chief Andrew Demetriou barred from sitting in any judgment of the AFL charges, saying he has a conflict of interest.

Hird on Thursday issued a Supreme Court writ against the AFL and also wants the charges heard by an independent body, not the AFL Commission.

But Little, who spoke so aggressively on Wednesday, is now telling members the Bombers know sanctions are coming.

“At yesterday’s meeting of AFL Club chairmen and presidents, I stressed we wanted matters resolved but also that matters need to be concluded in a fair manner with charges and penalties that reflect the club’s actual failings and the evidence,” Little said on the essendonfc.com.au site.

“We have made mistakes in terms of governance and people management, and we apologise for them.

“We also accept there will be AFL sanctions as a consequence but the evidence does not extend to drug cheating, and we’re working to ensure that the charges and ultimate penalties reflect this.

“We will keep you updated with any developments over the coming days.”

Little said the Bombers had taken on board the fact their members had urged the club to quickly resolve the charges laid against the Bombers.

“We share your view,” Little said.

“The ongoing controversy is harmful to our players and their families, our officials, the club, other AFL clubs and the AFL itself.

“Despite the events of recent days, we believe these matters can be resolved before too long.”

Fairfax Media reported on Friday night the Bombers had given ground in negotiations with the AFL and there’s little chance Essendon will play finals next month, opening the door for a club outside the top eight to claim a berth.