Senior coach John Worsfold says the unwavering loyalty of Essendon members has been a source of inspiration for him during his four years at the club.

The 51-year-old took the reins at the end of 2015, galvanising the club as it contested the 2016 season without 12 players banned due to the supplements saga.

Despite coaching at heavily supported clubs West Coast and Adelaide, he said he was taken aback by the support of the Bomber faithful in particular, especially during challenging times.

“One of the first things that stood out to me was the loyalty of the members - people introducing themselves to me, whether it was at a club event, at training, or even just on the streets of Moonee Ponds and Essendon," Worsfold said on club podcast Working Through It.

"When they introduced themselves, they had to add how long they’ve been a member for. It was ingrained in their personalities. Up to 72 years is the record I’ve had.

"When I left West Coast, they were maybe 26 years old in their history. To have (Essendon) members who have been that loyal and supportive of the footy club, you know, generational members … that was just inspiring. It really showed me that we’ve got to do a good job for these people. It’s so much a part of their life. It means so much to them, that they are a real part of the Essendon Football Club. They’ve been involved in the football club longer than any current player or employee.

"They’ve been derided by opposition supporters for a while, but they’ve copped that on the chin and haven’t backed down or been embarrassed about supporting the Essendon Football Club, and that showed that last year, setting a new membership record."

Watch below as Worsfold speaks about Essendon members' support and answers fans' questions during the AFL lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.