Coach hopes Ryder stays with ‘Dons in AFL

Essendon coach Mark Thompson has lamented the uncertainty about Paddy Ryder, saying it would reflect poorly on the AFL club if the ruckman leaves.

As the Bombers try to convince Ryder to stay, they confirmed on Sunday that small forward Leroy Jetta will leave.

It was noticeable that Essendon’s media release about Jetta stressed that he was leaving the club on good terms.

There is widespread speculation that one of the main reasons that Ryder wants out of Essendon is their ongoing supplements crisis.

Thompson, a three-time Essendon premiership player whose nickname is Bomber, referred to their club culture when asked about Ryder after Saturday night’s season-ending loss to North Melbourne.

The outgoing interim coach said the ruckman was a much-loved player at the club and it would be a shame if he left.

Thompson spoke about legendary coach Kevin Sheedy and his determination to look after people.

“In the past, Sheeds’ legacy has been that it’s all about people and treating people well,” Thompson said.

“We all thought he was a big, hard taskmaster and a ruthless animal, but actually he’s a very generous, loving person who cares about people.

“That’s who we are and who we should be.

“For us to lose someone like Paddy is a poor reflection … for that reason alone, I hope he doesn’t go.”

While Ryder’s future is uncertain, Jetta’s departure is entirely predictable.

The speedy small forward played eight games last year and only managed two this season.

Essendon released a statement, quoting Jetta’s manager Colin Young, after the Channel Nine Footy Show said the player would try to pursue his AFL career elsewhere.

Young was quoted in the statement as saying he had been talking to Bombers official Adrian Dodoro for three months about Jetta.

“Obviously he wasn’t playing senior football and Leroy decided it was time to seek a new home and opportunities at another club,” Young said.

“Importantly, this decision has not been made in relation to any other matter.”

Jetta was quoted in the statement as saying he was leaving the club on good terms.

“It is a difficult decision to move on after eight years at Essendon but the time is right to look for new opportunities elsewhere,” Jetta said.

“I’ve been lucky enough to play under some terrific coaches, including James Hird and Mark Thompson, and I would like to thank everyone at the Essendon Football Club for the support they have shown me, especially my teammates.”

“I’d also like to thank the fans and supporters. I will always look back at my time at Essendon with great memories.”

Jetta had played 93 games for Essendon since his 2007 debut.

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