Essendon has had its sights on ruckman Jonathan Giles for more than four years with the 201cm big man completing a week of pre-season training with the club in 2011.

Giles joined the Bombers in search of greater senior opportunities on Thursday as part of a trade with Greater Western Sydney.

Coach James Hird said the club was thrilled to secure the services of Giles.

“We have been keeping track of Jonathan for quite a while,” Hird said.

“Adrian Dodoro who has done an amazing job in this trade period bought Jonathan here back in the 2011 pre-season and he did a week of training here.”

“We have been watching his progression since that time and he has been fantastic for GWS.”

“We have always liked him as a person and a footballer so when Paddy looked like leaving we looked around and he was our favoured option.”

The 26-year-old spent four seasons on Port Adelaide’s list before moving to Greater Western Sydney where he played 51 matches in three seasons.

Not only can he provide a strong option in the ruck but he has kicked 39 goals from his 51 matches.

“A ruckman who can just play ruck are a little bit limited,” Hird said.

“With the way the game is and your ability to rest players up forward and the speed of the game you don’t want to have too many guys that can play only one position.

“The fact he can play up forward and in the ruck compliments Tommy, who will have a big year this year and is an excellent ruckman.

“Tommy can play forward or in the ruck, Jonathan can as well and Joe Daniher can pinch hit in the ruck as well.”

Giles will join his new teammates for pre-season training when they return in under one month’s time.