Atkinson, who played five games with Essendon this year, was placed on the club’s rookie list after being taken in the 2007 rookie draft.

He made his AFL debut along with David Myers and Darcy Daniher against Port Adelaide and impressed the coaches and fans with his athleticism and attack on the ball.

The 23-year-old played under Matthew Knights at Bendigo in 2007 and is the fastest player at the club over 20m.

Knights said he received a text message from Atkinson saying ‘I won’t let you down’ after he was told of his elevation to the senior list.