Zach Merrett replaced by Dyson Heppell at Essendon captains speaking function

Zach Merrett has been pulled from the lineup of a Essendon captains function.

The wantaway Bombers skipper was set to appear on a panel alongside three of his most iconic predecessors, Jobe Watson, James Hird and Tim Watson, next Thursday at Shoppingtown Hotel in Doncaster.

Tickets have been sold to fans for as much as $129 per person, which includes the option to get photos with the Bombers greats.

The function, which is being put on by Authentic Autographs Events in conjunction with Anthem Entertainment, was announced in early August.

In the weeks since then, Merrett has explored a bombshell move away from Essendon, met with Hawthorn, and essentially ruled out any possibility that he would return to the club, despite having two years to run on his lucrative contract.

Constant leaking of information from both sides of the public dispute has made for a hostile co-existence, and a trade now appears inevitable, despite Essendon coach Brad Scott, president David Barham and CEO Craig Vozzo all denying the club would even consider it.

On Thursday, ticket holders for the Doncaster function were issued with an update that Merrett would be replaced by Dyson Heppell.

“Due to the challenging and fluid nature of the events of the last week, we have decided to alter the lineup for our Essendon Captains show,” the message reads.

“We think it’s important Zach is allowed the opportunity to sort through the current dialogue with the club before we promote appearances on his behalf.

“Dyson Heppell will instead sit alongside James Hird, Tim Watson, and Jobe Watson.

“Here is an opportunity to hear directly from the men themselves on all things Essendon currently, and celebrate ‘84, ‘85, ‘93, 2000 - and beyond.

“We look forward to seeing you then. Go Bombers!”

On August 6, the event was billed as an unmissable show for Bombers fans who wanted insight into the club’s past, present and future.

“The most incredible line up for the true Essendon Football Club fan!” Authentic Autographs Events announced at the time.

“This promises to be one of the most remarkable shows for Bombers’ fans in a long time.

“Genuine Essendon Football Club royalty: The Captains.

“James Hird, Jobe Watson, Tim Watson, alongside 250 gamer and fearless leader Zach Merrett.

“Intimate, real, with all things ‘84, ‘85, ‘93, 2000, and how the Dons are placed for their 17th premiership — from those that would know.”