The environment established by Coach John Worsfold has given premiership player Mathew Stokes confidence Michael Hurley will return to the Club next season.
Speaking on Fox Footy’s AFL Tonight on Thursday evening, Stokes spoke highly of the influence that Worsfold has had in his short time at the Club.
He says the culture at the Bombers will help retain Hurley.
“Obviously some things happened at the club and they’re trying to rectify that,” Stokes said.
“Woosha’s obviously come in and he’s been awesome.
“What they’re trying to set up is awesome. Hopefully (Hurley) can see that. He still has his friends here and I think the club is doing everything they can to keep him.
“It would be great to get all those guys back and be able to get the club back to where it should be.”
Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell has stated the Club would be offering Hurley a long term contract extension once he returns from holiday.
The All-Australian defender is currently travelling with teammates Michael Hibberd, Cale Hooker and Tom Bellchambers with the Club happy to give him his time to make his decision.
As for his own future, Stokes said he had no intention on playing on 2017.
Signing on with the Bombers at the start of the year, the ex-Cat has been an important member of the team both on and off the field.
Stokes spoke positively of his time so far at the Club and reassured fans 'good times' lie ahead.
“I think (Worsfold) has set up a really good culture at the club, especially with the younger guys,” Stokes said.
“People see it as a development year because of the players we’re missing, but he’s really brought a calming influence to the group, he’s taken control of the club and pushing it in the direction he wants it to go and I think it’s a good direction.
“They’re going to be in for some really good times ahead and hopefully people that support the club — and the players — can forget about the bad times.”
