The Kangaroos have lost nine matches on the bounce; the last two of those under caretaker Brett Ratten after senior coach Alastair Clarkson stepped away on personal leave.

But Bombers mentor Scott is wary of his former club, noting their improved performances in recent weeks.

Scott insisted it won't be easy at Marvel Stadium on Sunday for Essendon, who are seeking a third straight win to further strengthen their grip on a top-eight spot.

"I'm not being flippant when I say every game is a hard game for us," Scott said this week.

"We're coming up against a side that have dominated the stoppages, clearances and scores from clearances over the past month, and that's been against some pretty good sides (such as) Collingwood last week.

"We're nowhere near the stage where we can think that a result is just going to happen for us. We've got to go out and make it happen."

Scott declared the clearance battle crucial, describing North Melbourne's stoppage work as "first class".

"They're right up the top of the competition over the last month in terms of their work in and around the contest," he said.

"That's largely led by Todd Goldstein and Jy Simpkin. We're going to have to be at our best to match them."

Former All-Australian midfielder Dylan Shiel's return from a foot injury will help Essendon's cause.

The Bombers dropped Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti and Nick Bryan, with the latter picked among the emergencies.

North Melbourne have made three changes, including recalling troubled utility Tarryn Thomas.

Thomas' career hung in the balance when he was stood down by the Kangaroos for a second time in March amid concerns over his behaviour towards women.

The club has said the 23-year-old has since made progress on and off the field, paving the way for his return to senior football for the first time since round 15 last year.

Darcy Tucker and Liam Shiels also return for the Kangaroos, with Daniel Howell, Tom Powell and Charlie Lazzaro all dropped.

Essendon have won their last eight meetings with North Melbourne in a run that dates back to Scott's time in charge of the Kangaroos, which ended midway through 2019.

Australian Associated Press