Essendon recruit Peter Wright says he’s eager to prove himself to his teammates and work hard to secure a spot in the club’s best 22.

The 203cm forward/ruck became the first player to join the Bombers in the 2020 AFL trade period in exchange for a future fourth-round pick. 

TRADE & DRAFT HUB

Originally selected with pick No.8 in the 2014 NAB AFL Draft by the Gold Coast Suns, Wright is an imposing tall who has kicked 85 goals from 66 games and looms as an ideal forward option for the red and black.

The 24-year-old, who is entering his seventh season, is determined to prove himself to his new club as he endeavours to cement a spot in the Bombers’ side. 

“I don’t think there’s any guarantees in football and I’m not expecting to walk into the club and get a game straight away,” Wright said.

“I know that there’s a lot of hard work to go and everyone needs to earn their spot ... I can’t wait to get down and get started.” 

Wright added in an interview with SEN 1116 on Wednesday morning that senior coach Ben Rutten helped convince the Calder Cannons product that he could reach his potential under his tutelage.

“I spoke with Ben around developing me into playing my best football and he was strong in that belief,” he said. 

“I’m looking forward to working closely with him and the rest of the coaching group.” 

The addition of Wright to the club’s goalkicking stocks comes after the departure of Joe Daniher, who was the Bombers’ main key forward for several seasons.

While some view the new Don as a near identical replacement for Daniher in terms of height and position, Wright says he won’t be drawn into comparisons and will make his own mark at the Bombers. 

“I won’t read too much into that (the comparisons), I’ll try and play my best football,” he said.

“The messaging from speaking with Ben (Rutten) and Adrian (Dodoro) was around a role as a forward/ruck. 

“How that balance sits, it’s still to play out a little bit, but I’m open to any role and to get started, work hard and earn any spot moving forward.” 

When queried on the appeal of joining Essendon, Wright said the decision to join the club came down to two simple factors. 

“Essendon’s obviously a large club with a really rich history and from a football perspective, it seemed like a really good fit,” he said. 

“I think it’s a really exciting list and a list that is dedicated to working towards success, and I really want to be a part of that and fast-track that as quick as I can.”