Thrust into the Captaincy on the eve of the season, Brendon Goddard led from the front in 2016.

His fourth placing in the Crichton Medal recognised his consistent season.

Goddard ranked in the top five at the Club for disposals, metres gained, contested possessions, intercept possessions, marks, tackles and score involvements. 

The 31 year old recorded at least 22 possessions in each of his 20 games this season – except the match against Geelong, where Goddard was assisted from the field in the first half after sustaining a groin injury.

Goddard signed a new deal in August that will see him play on in 2017.

“As a Club we’ve made great in roads this year, I’m excited about heading into my fifth season at Essendon, and I couldn’t see myself playing anywhere else,” Goddard said.

“Being reunited with our teammates in the coming months and the talent that has emerged this season fills me with great optimism about 2017. We still have plenty of hard work ahead of us but this playing group has incredible drive and ambition.

“Working under Woosha has been extremely refreshing for the group and me personally. He’s done a great job implementing an elite football program which has seen us playing some really exciting and competitive football.

“I’m looking forward to getting back out on the field this weekend. As a playing group we want to finish this season on a positive note and reward our members and supporters for their incredible loyalty.”

Goddard’s 2016 season

Games: 20

Ave disposals: 26 (3^rd highest at Club)

Ave metres gained: 359.3 (3^rd highest at Club)

Ave contested possessions: 7.9 (5^th highest at Club)

Ave clearances: 3.1 (6^th highest at Club)

Ave marks: 5.9 (5^th highest at Club)

Ave kicks: 12.9 (5^th highest at Club)

Ave tackles: 3.7 (5^th highest at Club)

Ave intercept possessions: 4.4 (4^th highest at Club)

Ave score involvements: 5.2 (3^rd highest at Club)