Essendon’s first selection in the 2006 draft (pick 2 overall), Scott Gumbleton, certainly impressed fans in the five games he played this season.

Already being touted as the next Scott Lucas, Gumbleton showed strong marking ability and after a strong pre-season in the gym, he will be one to watch in 2008.

2007

Games – 5
Goals – 3
Kicks – 19
Marks – 26
Handballs – 22

2007 Fan’s ranking: 4.95/10

What some of the Essendon fans had to say:

Wow! This kid could be anything. He has good hands and will slot into Lucas’ position nicely when Scotty retires. Can't wait to watch him play next year. (John Hartman)

Everybody who watches Gumbleton play knows he will be a star. (Mark Grant)

I like the look of him. He leads well, has a great mark and is very mobile. Hopefully with more games under his belt next year he will get even better. ( Patrick Lijnders)

He had very limited exposure to the big league due to injury. Once he gets his confidence up, Gumby will show his real potential. I think he will be Scotty Lucas' successor, and will become one of the best centre half forwards in the game. (Nathan Beever)

Scott was given a taste of senior football later in the year and acquitted himself well. He is a good lead and strong mark. Scott needs to bulk up / increase his strength and with experience he will get better at reading the play. A great long term prospect. (Rod Ansell)

Showed great poise for a debutant. Definitely worth the draft pick and will be a great player of

the future. (Chris Paragreen)

Took a couple of games to settle into the side, but the signs are evident that he will become a very good player. A big summer in the gym and solid aerobic fitness base over pre-season should see him in a position to play the majority of senior games in 2008. (Richard Stafford)