DESPITE a second offence this year of missing a training session, Andrew Lovett's future at Essendon is not in jeopardy, according to coach Matthew Knights.

Essendon yesterday announced it had suspended the gifted and speedy Lovett for two matches after he failed to turn up to a compulsory training session on Monday. The leadership group and Knights met with Lovett and agreed on the penalty.

Knights said Lovett had "been out socialising". He admitted the midfielder had "had a few drinks", but said no other trouble had arisen from his night out.

"It was just a case of being out too late and having a couple of drinks and unfortunately he didn't make the session," Knights said.

Lovett was suspended from the pre-season competition earlier this year after missing a training session. He has also had past problems and was also the subject of a restraining order preventing him from contacting a former girlfriend.

Lovett will miss big MCG games against Richmond on Saturday and Collingwood the week after. He will be allowed to play for Bendigo in the VFL, but it has a bye this weekend.