Banned Bombers not my focus: Worsfold

Essendon coach John Worsfold says his sole focus is on preparing the Bombers for their opening NAB Challenge clash against Carlton and not the training regime to be undertaken by the club's banned players.

The 12 Essendon players, led by skipper Jobe Watson, along with up to five others now with other clubs who were suspended for their part in the Bombers' 2012 supplements program are reportedly set to begin training this week.

The group rejected an offer by three-time premiership coach Mick Malthouse to oversee their physical conditioning while they serve their bans, with Worsfold unable to confirm reports that former Essendon player and assistant coach Sean Wellman will fill that role.