Essendon Football Club has announced its guernsey numbers for the 2017 season at its annual Member Forum held at Etihad Stadium this evening.

Headlining the changes is Bombers’ Number 1 Draft Pick, Andrew McGrath, who will run out in the number 1 Guernsey this season.

McGrath said he was humbled to wear the guernsey which has been made famous by champions of the Club.

“I’m extremely honoured to wear the number one guernsey next season,” McGrath said.

“To be handed the number worn by champions of our Club such as Merv Neagle, Mark Harvey and Mark Johnson is something I’m proud of but also understand the significance of.

“On our lockers are the names of the past players who have worn the guernsey and a list of their achievements. It certainly gives you motivation before training and reminds you of the hard work you need to put in if you want to achieve the ultimate team success.”

Fellow draftees Jordan Ridley, Josh Begley, Kobe Mutch and Dylan Clarke will don numbers 14, 16, 19 and 37 respectively.

New recruits, James Stewart and Josh Green will take on numbers 17 and 15 respectively.

Number 1 Rookie Draft Pick, Sam Draper, will run out in number 38 and Category B Rookie and the Bombers’ inaugural Next Generation Academy player, Ben McNiece, will don the number 41.

The remainder of the Bombers’ playing list remains unchanged for season 2017.

ESSENDON GUERNSEY NUMBERS – 2017 PLAYING LIST