David Zaharakis says he’s happy at the Bombers and wants to remain a one club player.

The Crichton Medal winner is eligible for free agency at season’s end but said he hadn’t given that option any thought.

“Every year players either get it done early or wait until the end of the year and that doesn’t determine whether you stay at the footy club or not,” Zaharakis said. 

“For me it doesn’t really matter when it (a new contract) gets done.

“I’m just focusing on playing footy in the JLT Community Series and then round one.

“I’m very happy being at the Essendon Football Club. I’ve been an Essendon supporter since I was born.

“I want to stay here and be an Essendon Footy Club player.”

Zaharakis has played 147 games for the Bombers and has featured in the leadership group throughout his career. 

The Bombers players are going through the process of electing their leaders for the upcoming season. 

Zaharakis said whether he has an official title or not, it won’t affect the way he conducts himself. 

“It doesn’t really faze me if you get in the leadership group or not,” he said. 

“I’m an older guy now, I’ve had nine years at the footy club, I’m a leader of the Club no matter what.

“I’m expected, and I want to teach young guys how to play footy and how to embrace the AFL system.

“Whether that’s in an (official) leadership role or not, I’m still a leader of the footy club.”