Essendon defender Henry Slattery will leavethe club to seek further opportunities after playing just two matches duringthe 2012 season.

Coach James Hird announced the news at theclub’s best and fairest dinner at Crown on Wednesday night.

“Henry has been at our club for seven yearsnow and will be leaving to seek further opportunities,” Hird said.

“I’m not to sure there is a better team manthan Henry having played with him for two years at Essendon.

“I know for a lot of the boys you are theirfavourite so we thank you for the contribution you have given us.”

Slattery today told Trade Radio he felt themove coming throughout the year as the coaching staff began to give moreopportunities to younger players.

The 26-year-old, who has played 96 matches,is an unrestricted free agent, meaning he can sign at any club.

Slattery is the fourth change to Essendon’slist in the off-season following the delisting of Anthony Long and Brendan Leeas well as the retirement of Mark McVeigh.