Former Essendon forward Matthew Lloyd has given first gamer Kyle Langford a ringing endorsement.

Langford played his first game for the Bombers on the weekend.

He picked up 12 possessions and took 12 marks. 

“He really settled down after half time.  He got his hands on the ball.  He got some important touches,” Lloyd said.

Essendon’s goal kicking record holder has returned to the club this season and has been spending time with the forward group.

In the lead up to the season, Langford made a positive impression. 

“A lot of guys get on an AFL list and they waste their first year or two.  They think they’ve got time on their side whereas Kyle has trained like an AFL footballer from day one,” Lloyd said.

“He’s always asking to do extras whether it be goal-kicking, body work – he competes hard, he hates being beaten. 

“He’s got a huge future.  That’s why he debuted in round five because of that attitude.”

Langford had the chance to join the growing list of first gamers to kick a goal with their first kick in the AFL, but the ball hit the post.

The 18 year old also missed a second set shot later in the match. 

But Lloyd is remaining confident the goals will come.

“Believe it or not he’s one of the best kicks for goal in the sessions that I do,” he said. 

Lloyd hopes Langford can develop into a Jack Gunston type of player over the next few seasons.

“There is nothing wrong with having someone who can stay inside 50 and kick you 40 goals a year. 

“That’s what I hope Kyle Langford can become because he’s good in the air and at ground level.”