Essendon has hailed Adam Ramanauskas for his courage in beating cancer and acclaimed him as the AFL club's "heart and soul".

Bombers chairman Ray Horsburgh said Saturday's Clash for Cancer game against Melbourne at the MCG would remind everyone of the 27-year-old's courage in beating several bouts of cancer.

"Adam courageously battled this dreadful disease and is now back playing senior football," Horsburgh told the pre-game lunch.

"Rama's part of the heart and soul of this club and his recovery and return to football has touched us all.

"We believe this Clash for Cancer game remains his legacy and will be for many years to come."

Essendon has used the game as part of the Anti Cancer Council's Call to Arms appeal to raise awareness about cancer and collect funds to devote to research.

The Bombers players wore specially-made guernseys with a yellow band around the left sleeve, which will be auctioned off for charity.

Horsburgh said about 900 football clubs around Australia would also be wearing yellow armbands when playing this weekend.

Horsburgh also paid tribute to Ramanauskas' wife Belinda.

"Belinda's been a fantastic support to Adam providing a lot of love and affection to Adam throughout his hard times," he said.

"It's wonderful to see Adam out on the field playing football, so thank you Belinda, for the support you've given Adam."

Ramanauskas was first diagnosed with cancer in 2003 and suffered a recurrence in 2006.

He has played 14 games this season to give him a career tally of 130.

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