‘Dons re-sign Chapman in AFL

Veteran Paul Chapman has re-signed with Essendon, two days after it had been reported that his negotiations with the AFL club had broken down.

The Bombers announced on Tuesday that Chapman had agreed to another one-year deal.

They said he would remain at Essendon at least until the end of next season.

After three premierships and 251 games at Geelong, the 32-year-old had a successful season with the Bombers.

He played 20 games and kicked 22 goals this year as the Bombers returned to the finals.

“My body and mind still feel really good,” he said.

“I felt I had a really productive first year at the club and, hopefully, the coaches felt that I played the role they needed me to.

“I’m looking forward to going around again with the boys and getting stuck into the pre-season.”

A media report on Sunday said one of the reasons Chapman’s negotiations with Essendon had stalled was the money it took them to sign former Western Bulldogs midfielder Adam Cooney.

But in their statement, the Bombers quoted Chapman as saying he was always confident of playing a second season at the club.

“There is no doubt that Paul brings invaluable experience to our team,” said coach James Hird.

“He played some really solid football this year, particularly towards the end of the season, and really showed his class during the club’s finals series.

“Paul is a great role model and provides important guidance for our relatively young forward line. He is a terrific asset for our club.”

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