Former Bomber Brent Stanton will coach Essendon’s VFL side in 2022.
Stanton, who has most recently spent four years at Carlton as a development and assistant coach, will return to the club where he played 255 games over 13 seasons.
“Our VFL program plays a very important role in the development of our AFL-listed players, as well as an avenue for VFL-listed players to maximise their potential,” Essendon football boss Josh Mahoney said in a club statement.
“We’re delighted to have Brent return to the NEC Hangar as the VFL senior coach.
“He’s a much-loved figure here at Essendon after forging a wonderful career as a player.
“This appointment benefits both the club and Brent. This additional resource allows experienced coach Leigh Tudor to focus entirely on the development of our AFL players, as well as being an important next step in Brent’s coaching career to coach his own team.”
Stanton departed Carlton on the back of the club’s football department review, which saw head coach David Teague replaced by Michael Voss.
The 35-year-old spent 13 years at the Bombers, with the new role marking his return to the club after he departed at the end of the 2017 season.