Bombers coach James Hird says midfielder Sam Lonergan ready for potential Blues backlash

ESSENDON coach James Hird says if Carlton players choose to target Sam Lonergan at the MCG tomorrow, good luck to them.

ESSENDON coach James Hird says if Carlton players choose to target Sam Lonergan at the MCG tomorrow, good luck to them.

The Blues were believed to be fuming after Lonergan's Round 4 tackle on Andrew Carrazzo broke the midfielder's shoulder blade.

The incident later sparked Twitter threats to Lonergan.

"It's up to them whether they want to put fireworks on the table," Hird said.

"We want to go out and play the game and play some really good football.

"We think we've got some good hard footballers and if they want to take on Sam Lonergan, then good luck to them.

"He's as tough as there is on the football field. He can certainly look after himself."

Hird said the clash - a must win for the Blues and crucial to Essendon keeping its spot in the top eight - was a massive test for the Bombers.

"This is a huge challenge for us...to see whether we can handle losing a few games," Hird said.

"Players coming back, big MCG crowd, a game where there isn't much to come back from. You've got to win this game and that's a challenge.

"I think our guys are ready for it, I hope they're ready for it."

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