The 2002 season looms large and in the New Year the Engine Room will continue to profile each player on the Essendon senior list. We will have a look at what went right in 2001 and what went wrong. What will the coaching staff want from each player and how might they be used in 2002. Today we take a look at JAMES HIRD. A star player now recognised as an excellent leader, the finale to 2002 won't have sat well with him over the summer period. He sets exceptionally high standards for himself and he will demand that of his teammates as they work towards round one of 2002.

While the statistics will show that James Hird played 22 out of a possible 25 games in 2001, there is no doubt that at times during the year he was less than 100% fit. Despite this he still had an excellent season - he was second in hard ball gets behind Jason Johnson, second in clearances, general kicks and long kicks and fourth in contested marks and inside 50s. He averaged just under 20 possessions per game. They are numbers that reflect his versatility and importance.

Nonetheless, he won't take any great pleasure in the final result of season 2001. To reach a Grand Final is nice but it is the result that matters. He would see anything less than the ultimate as a failure for this current group of players. He will also see 2002 as a very stern test of character for this club.

Hird turns 29 in early February and is in the prime of his football career at the moment. He will be very keen to ensure that it doesn't pass him by without adding to his already remarkable list of successes. Opportunities must be taken - season 2002 provides another chance. His pre-season has gone to plan and both his body and mind are in good shape to tackle the season ahead. That could spell trouble for opposition sides.

How will he be used?

Take your pick. Doesn't really matter where you put him he will always be a significant contributor. Spent much of last season starting up forward before moving into the mid-field when he saw fit. He is a magnificent on-baller who produced some sensational quarters last season. His courage unquestioned and his skill and reading of the play is excellent. You can expect him to play a similar role in 2002.

What will the coaches expect on match day?

On an average day they would expect him to get 20-odd possessions, kick a couple of goals and generally cause opposition coaching staff headaches. On a good day they can just sit back and enjoy the show - 30-plus possessions, a few goals next to his name and a couple given away. Opposition coaches might as well do the same - when on song the Bombers rarely get beaten.