Essendon have shown great faith in Michael Hurley, agreeing to a new five-year contract with the young key-position star who would have been a prime recruiting target for Greater Western Sydney.
Hurley, 21, whose previous deal ran out at the end of this season, has now been locked down by the Bombers until at least 2017.
It’s a huge boost for Essendon and their second-year coach James Hird on the eve of the 2012 campaign.
“Michael is an incredibly important part of our future and it is very exciting for the club to have secured his services for the next five years,” said Hird.
“There was always going to be a lot of interest in a player of Michael’s ability, so for him to commit to the club is a great sign of his faith in the direction we are heading.”
Hurley has played 47 games for the Bombers since being selected by the club with pick No.5 in the 2008 national draft.
Essendon will now turn their attention to re-signing ruck-forward Paddy Ryder.
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