North Melbourne could face a new-look Essendon forward line when it takes on the Bombers this Saturday night. 

With Jake Stringer out for at least eight weeks, and Joe Daniher ruled out indefinitely, Bombers coach John Worsfold has hinted defenders Cale Hooker and Aaron Francis could be used in the forward 50. 

"We will consider those things," Worsfold said on Thursday. 

"We've had some preliminary discussions around that. We've talked through all the different options we've got.

"Francis is not an option until he gets through full training (on Thursday) and once we know that we're better armed with making those decisions." 

Essendon will regain star midfielder Zach Merrett from suspension for the clash at Metricon Stadium.