Essendon champion Roger Merrett is currently recovering from a serious stroke in a Queensland hospital.

Merrett, 50, had the stroke on Tuesday last week and the two time premiership player is making steady progress after an abnormal heart beat caused a blood clot on his brain.

Essendon Chief Executive Ian Robson said the club had been in contact with the family. “On behalf of the Essendon Football Club, we wish Roger a speedy and full recovery,” Robson said.

“One of the hard men of football, he wore the jumper with great pride and Roger is much loved by all Essendon people. Our thoughts are with the Merrett family during this difficult time,” he said.

Please post a message of support below and the Club will pass them on to Roger and his family.