Essendon legend James Hird has explained exactly what the Bombers will lose if captain Zach Merrett is traded from the club.
The Bombers finished the season in 15th position with six wins and 17 losses as injuries heavily affected their season, while Merrett’s future at the club has been talked about since news came out that he met with Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell in early September.
Hird, who won two premierships at the Bombers, explained how Merrett’s captaincy style of giving direct feedback would have put some of his teammates off.
“Certain styles of leadership, certain styles of personalities appeal to some players, don't appeal to others,” Hird said on AFL Trade Radio.
MORE: Port Adelaide plans for 'compromised' draft and Wanganeen-Milera
“Zach, to me, is the most driven footballer in the AFL. He, along with a number of other champions that are there, he wants success, he strives for success, and he demands that people come with him and perform at a certain level.
“The reality is that there aren't many personalities like Zach Merrett, and the other players won't like the fact that he gives direct feedback.”
Hird added that if Merrett leaves the club and former number one pick Andrew McGrath becomes captain, the change in leadership styles might not be right.
“There's no doubt, I'm sure that some players would prefer to have Andy McGrath as the captain just because Andy has a softer style, but that doesn't mean that's right,” Hird said.
“If the Essendon football club loses Zach Merrett, not only are they losing a good player, but they're losing a person who sets standards and demands excellence from the squad, and I don't think you can afford to lose people like that out here to out of your out of your squad”
There are reports that Merrett still wants to leave the club, while fellow Bombers legend Tim Watson doesn’t believe a deal will be done.
There are only two days left in the trade period, so it will be left late if Merrett is traded from the Bombers.