New Essendon recruit Devon Smith has highlighted the reasons behind his move to the Bombers.
After nominating them last week, Smith’s trade request was granted today by Greater Western Sydney. The Giants will get the Dons’ first round pick and a 2018 third rounder, while Essendon acquires Smith, pick 24 and a 2018 second round selection.
Admitting he has thought about the prospect of leaving for “the past six-to-eight weeks,” the 24-year-old has outlined why he wanted to head to Tullamarine.
“I just really liked their list and their staff,” Smith told SEN.
“Watching them last year, it looked like they played such an exciting brand of footy. With the tragedy they went through the year before, to come back, finish seventh and play Sydney in a final…I really think they’re an exciting group and I can’t wait to get involved.”
Smith also revealed he sourced advice from a former GWS teammate, who is also now a Bomber, when going through the decision making process.
“I texted James Stewart and asked what his opinion was,” he said.
“It is the same with every club, you do your due diligence and ask about all the physios, the coach and the everyday schedule. I saw them as the best fit for me.
“They’re an exciting club, a big footy club and I can’t wait.”
Geelong was constantly mentioned as a favourite to acquire Smith’s services, once it surfaced he was keen to move back home to Victoria. While he is a Geelong native, and is a Falcons product, Smith has admitted he didn’t feel a great pull to head to the Cats.
“No doubt that would be a fairy tale, but I think that’s just what it is,” he said.
“To go home and play footy 10 minutes from home would be great, but it’s not like I grew up barracking for Geelong or whatnot.”
Smith has been keen to play prolonged midfield minutes, after spending majority of his time at half forward with the Giants. With the retirement of Jobe Watson, the Bombers seem to be shallow in the engine room, leading to greater opportunities for their new asset.
“That’s where I played as a junior, and then I just rested forward,” Smith said.
“I’m looking forward to putting myself out there and playing in the midfield alongside some pretty handy players.”