Interim Senior Coach Matthew Egan has praised the work Paul Chapman has done with Essendon’s younger players throughout his time at the Club. 

Chapman will play his final game tomorrow night against Richmond. 

After 251 games with Geelong, Chapman joined Essendon ahead of the 2014 season.

Egan said his influence extended beyond match day. 

“He understands the game really well,” Egan said. 

“We’ve a lot of young half forwards so Kyle Langford, Jayden Laverde, Conor McKenna – he’s educated them on the game – where to position themselves, how to get the front and square, technique with their kicking, he’s been like a coach for us.

“In team meetings he speaks up, he’s in our leadership group so it shows what the players think of him. 

“They value his opinion and he’s been good for us.”

Chapman has made his name on football’s biggest stage, picking up three premiership medals and a Norm Smith Medal throughout his career.

“He’s a big game player and I reckon his retirement game something could happen,” Egan said. 

“I’m hoping he just contributes and enjoys himself because he’s had a fantastic career.

“He’s been an absolute superstar of the game.”

Egan said a unique combination of skill and toughness made Chapman such a brilliant player.

“He’s an absolute competitor, he’s ruthless, he’s good in the air, he’s good on the ground,” he said.

“From my perspective he is the best snap and one of the best kicks I’ve seen at Geelong.

“He’s had a great career and I hope he finishes off really strong.”