AFL Legend Leigh Matthews has backed Essendon’s push for pick five in exchange for Jake Carlisle.

The versatile swingman has indicated his preference to play for St Kilda next season.

Matthews, a four-time premiership winning Coach, told 3AW Carlisle is worth the early pick.

“The idea of trading is we all win, but most people trading think we’ve got to win and you’ve got to lose,” Matthews said.

“You’ve got a guy who has been a proven key position player, a very good key position defender.

“Remember you’re drafting 18 year olds – so your first pick if he’s an 18 year old will be a champion in three or four years time.

“I think the industry overrates draft choices.

“I reckon a 24 year old key position player that is hard to find, that’s proven, I reckon I’d be swapping pick five for him if you wanted him.”