A year after turning down a return to his native WA, Essendon defender Cale Hooker has signed a three-year deal with the AFL club.

The 24-year-old was a crucial part of the proposed three-way trade that would have sent him to West Coast and Mitch Brown from the Eagles to St Kilda.

Hooker quickly rejected the idea and for all the off-field turbulence at Essendon since, he has made the most of staying put.

He played every game this season for the first time since making his senior debut in 2008.

“We have a really solid defensive unit and I think that’s not only helped myself but also the guys in the backline play some really consistent football this season,” Hooker said in a club statement.

“I’m looking forward to the next three years, I’ve got a lot of good mates here at Essendon.

“We believe if we continue to work hard, perform consistently at the level we know we can, then we can achieve the success we all crave.”

The Bombers’ defensive coach Sean Wellman said Hooker had enjoyed his most complete season so far.

“I think the most pleasing aspect of Cale’s game is his confidence to leave and beat his man in a contest,” Wellman said.

“He’s also improved his ball use which has been pivotal in our transition from defence to attack.”