Essendon forward Joe Daniher has picked up a calf strain and will miss the start of the 2019 AFL season.

Daniher, 25, received a kick to the calf in training on Thursday and will sit out at least the next four weeks, including next weekend’s round-one clash against Greater Western Sydney.

“While disappointing, this injury provides an opportunity for another forward to step up in Joe’s absence and as a team, we remain focused on our preparation for next week’s season opener,” Essendon general manager of football Dan Richardson said.