AFL: ESSENDON veteran Brent Stanton is the latest player to announce his retirement

ESSENDON veteran Brent Stanton is the latest player to announce his retirement, confirming the 2017 AFL season will be his last.

Stanton announced his retirement on Thursday, becoming the third Bomber in as many weeks to call it quits, following James Kelly and Jobe Watson.

The hard-running midfielder said he would now look to pursue a coaching career.

“This was a decision I have been wrestling with for some time, but I’m glad I had the opportunity to come back and play one more season for the footy club that’s been such a huge part of my life,” Stanton said in a club statement.

“I’m extremely grateful the club gave me an opportunity to play at the elite level, and I leave with plenty of fond memories, a great group of mates and 255 games alongside my name.

“I’ve learnt a lot about myself over the course of this season. And while I haven’t played as much senior football as I would have liked, I’ve really enjoyed my time guiding and mentoring the young players in the VFL this season.

“I’ve always had a passion for coaching, and I now look forward to exploring the opportunity to pursue a career.”

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