He’s become one of the game’s elite defenders and Assistant Coach Matthew Egan attributes a greater level of maturity as the reason for Michael Hurley’s consistent performances this season.

Hurley has led the Essendon defence all year, standing some of the best forwards in the game and kick starting the Bombers attacking thrusts from deep in the backline.

“I’ve seen the talent for a long time,” Egan told RSN. 

“It’s just getting him to believe how good he could be, because his skills are outstanding, he’s an absolute competitor.

“He had to mature a bit; knowing  his body and being able to balance the training. 

“He’s one of the guys that is in my office more than ever, he just loves his footy.”

Niggling injuries limited Hurley’s game time throughout the early part of his career.

But he’s found an increased level of consistency over the last two seasons, missing just two games.

Hurley is averaging 21 possessions a game this season and is ranked number two in the AFL for rebounds from the defensive 50.

“He’s playing on good players every week, but he’s the fourth best intercept player in the league," Egan said. 

“He’s not only beating his opponent, but he’s hurting them the other way which I think is really important for a key back."

Hurley has kicked 105 goals in his career but only six in the last two seasons as his forward roles become more fleeting.

He’s kicked two goals this season, including a left foot bomb from outside 50 against Port Adelaide last Saturday.

“Not too many key backs can use the ball like that,” Egan said.

“I reckon he’s one of the most elite kicks in the competition.” 

The exciting thing for Bombers fans is Hurley has only just turned 25 and is contracted with the club until the end of 2017.