Stringer talks ‘a long way down the track’

CONFIDENCE is growing at Essendon that Jake Stringer will put pen to paper on a contract extension.

Bombers general manager of football Josh Mahoney has revealed that contract talks with Stringer are “a long way down the track”.

Stringer and his management are reportedly wanting a four-year deal with the 27-year-old coming out of contract at season’s end.

“It’s a long way down the track. It’s not too far away,” Mahoney told SEN Breakfast.

“I feel like I’ve said that for a little while now, but it’s actually true. It’s not that far away.”

Essendon great Tim Watson asked, “So you are completely confident that he will re-sign at Essendon then?”

Mahoney replied, “Yes.”

“Hopefully in the next little while we’ll get an announcement.

“He’s going very well. There’s been a lot of speculation, everyone’s got their thoughts on this contract.

“When we look at Jake’s last five to six weeks, he’s played probably the most consistent footy he’s played. He’s playing a really important role for us.

“We’ve been pleased with what he’s been able to do, and the contract is not far away.”

Stringer kicked four goals in Essendon’s 18 point over North Melbourne on Sunday.

The Bombers recently locked away star midfielders Zach Merrett and Darcy Parish to new contracts.

– BY ALEX ZAIA/ SEN