Shaun McKernan is back in the Essendon side and looking for greater consistency as he embarks on his quest to become an established AFL player.

The Bombers picked up the mobile big man in the Rookie Draft last December.

When he arrived at the Club, Coach James Hird was clear in his expectations. 

“I remember when I rocked up here he just said ‘I want a competitor and if you do that you’ll get picked’,” McKernan said.

“He’s pretty honest and he tells you how it is.

“I’m pretty lucky getting another chance and coming back home to Melbourne and there’s people here that I’ve worked pretty closely with that have helped me a fair bit.” 

The former Crow was promoted to the senior list after Travis Colyer and Tom Bellchambers suffered long-term injuries. 

It allows McKernan to assume the number one ruck role this weekend against Hawthorn.

“For me it creates an opportunity but I’m pretty gutted for Tommy,” he said.

“He had it pretty hard this year and it would have been great for him to get back in the team.”

McKernan returns to the senior side with a impressive run of VFL form under his belt. 

In his seven VFL games this season he’s averaging 21 possessions, 17 hit outs, seven marks and four tackles.

He’s also kicked 12 goals.

“Obviously there is a fair gap from VFL to AFL so it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to transfer over,” McKernan said.

“When I got elevated again and getting picked, for me it’s about re-establishing myself and showing everyone that I can play and get some continuity back in my career.”