Star midfielder Andrew McGrath says he won’t shy away from any challenges in his quest to fuel Essendon’s improvement after a disappointing 2020 campaign.

Having recommitted to the Bombers for a further two seasons, the 22-year-old said he was more determined than ever to achieve success in the red and black. 

“It’s (re-signing) really important for me,” McGrath said.

“I love the footy club. I have real pride putting on the jumper every week. It’s a club with a rich history, we’ve had a lot of success in the past, and I’m really determined to bring that back to the footy club and repay all our fans and bring that excitement back to their lives.”

The significance of donning the sash isn’t lost on McGrath, who did the jumper proud in a stellar 2020 season that saw him lead Essendon for tackles (4.79) and stoppage clearances (2.79) per game in his transition to a full-time midfielder. 

Despite being the youngest of the Bombers’ regular midfielders this season, the No.1 draft pick won admirers for his courage, work-rate and leadership. 

He said he was only just getting started, however, and would strive to bring his teammates along with him as he takes the next step in 2021.

“Playing in the midfield, (my hallmarks are) my pressure, tackling, and ability to win the ball in the contest and be ruthless with the way I go about it. It’s (contested work) an area we’ve been lacking in over recent years, and it’s something I can really hold my hat on in the coming years and really improve on,” he said. 

“To be given full rein and play bulk minutes in the centre bounces and stoppages has been really great. I’ve put myself up against the best players and challenged myself in that way, and kept pushing my teammates like Darcy (Parish), Dylan (Shiel), Dyson (Heppell) and Zach (Merrett) – just making each other better. 

“Leadership is something that comes naturally to me. I don’t force it. I love my teammates and love driving them to succeed. That’s why I’m here; I want to win and bring this club success, and any way I can do that I’m happy to do. The more people I can drag along with me and improve, that’s so important for me.”

While acknowledging what has been a difficult year for Essendon’s large and passionate fanbase, McGrath had a clear message for the faithful as the Bombers begin a new chapter under new senior coach Ben Rutten. 

“Stick with us. It’s been a difficult year, and though we haven’t achieved what we want to, internally we’re making big steps forward,” he said. 

“I think that over the next few years with the young group we’ve got, we’ll really take strides in that direction, bring Bomber fans what they want to see and rise up the ladder. I’m really excited to be a big part of that and can’t wait.”