Kyle Langford is shaping up to be an important player in Essendon’s future.
Recruited from the Northern Knights with the club’s first pick in the 2014 draft, Langford signed a contract extension on Friday that will see him remain a Bomber until the end of the 2018 season.
Alongside the likes of Jayden Laverde, Darcy Parish and Zach Merrett, Langford is just one of the many young Bombers who are paving the way for the future at the Club.
It was his teammates, as well as the influence of Coach John Worsfold, that made the decision to stay somewhat of a no-brainer.
“It’s an exciting club, with an exciting future and I’m stoked to be a part of it,” said Langford
“I think Woosha has been great, he’s developed a culture that I want to be part of.
“The suspended players re-signing also gives me great confidence of success in the future and, of course, the young guys.
“They’re all great and I can see success in the future.”
A naturally strong mark and accurate kick, Langford has spent the majority of his time at the Bombers playing across the half-forward line where he has kicked ten goals from 19-career games.
However, this year has provided a massive opportunity for him in his development.
Able to get his most consistent run of time in the seniors, Essendon’s coaches have seized the opportunity to trial Langford in a number of different positions.
The 19-year old has proven his versatility spending time up forward, on the wing and even on the ball.
Guy McKenna is one of the coaches that has been thrilled with what he had seen of Langford so far.
Speaking on Bomber Radio, McKenna saw great potential in the youngster in whatever position he finds himself on the football field.
“He’s so composed with the ball, he’s so tall – he’s actually like a Patrick Cripps from Carlton,” said McKenna
“He’s got a reach like a sick dog and he’s real clean and strong with his hands so, when he gets it, he makes really good decisions.
“There’s a bit of a fight on between me and Hayden Skipworth , the forward coach, because he’s done some really good jobs going forward and taking catches, kicking goals. Usually off one step he hits targets generally pretty well.
“He’s in his second year, so there’s still a lot of development and growth in Kyle.
“He’s certainly on the way to having a long, long career.”
Langford’s signature is one of great significance for the Club and it’s supporters.
It signifies, despite the tough circumstances of 2016, there is still great hope for the future.
More significantly, however, it demonstrates that the boys themselves have confidence in the group, the culture and the direction being driven by the football department and it is something they do not want to miss out on.
