New Essendon recruit, Michael Hurley, could be set for a big year of senior football in 2009 if early impressions are anything to go by.

The 18-year-old has quickly settled in well to life as a Bomber and is impressing coaches and players with his natural football ability.

Speaking exclusively to Bomber.tv, Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro believes Hurley has the potential to play a lot of game time in 2009, earmarking the defender as one to watch next season.

“He has settled in beautifully. You don’t want to put pressure on these guys too early but Matthew Knights came past my office the other day and was absolutely glowing because Hurley had impressed him so much on the track,” Dodoro said.
 

“His kicking is a feature on both the left and right side, he knows the game too. I would just describe him as a genuine footballer. There is no other way to describe him.”

Dodoro has so much faith in Hurley that he believes he could be a chance to make his AFL debut in round one against Port Adelaide at AAMI stadium.

“It depends on whether everyone is up and running but I would be surprised if he didn’t play a lot of time next season. That being said, it is only my personal opinion,” Dodoro said.

“Obviously Matthew Knights is going to give him time to settle in but the kid is just quality and he has been waiting to play league footy for 12 months.”

Watch the full interview on Bomber.tv by clicking here.