Essendon coach, Matthew Knights, described Peverill as one of the hardest working players he had coached or played against.

""Damien can be proud of everything he has achieved at this club. He has got every ounce out of himself as a player and set a great example for younger players that have come through the club,"" Knights said.

""These decisions are very difficult but we have set a direction that we want to take as club. It is important that we inject as much youth as possible into the club at the moment, particularly given the draft implications beyond this season and unfortunately that means making some hard calls and Damien was one of those.""

Peverill said he understood the reasons behind the club’s decision but at 29, felt he still has something to offer at the highest level.

""I have loved being a part of the Essendon Football Club. Matthew has been up front with me and I appreciate that and understand the reasons. We are parting on good terms,"" Peverill said.

""I am looking forward to the next two weeks and playing the best football I can. I would like to thank my teammates and the Essendon fans for all the support they have given me during my time at the club.

""I will weigh up my options but I would like to think I can still play AFL football. My recent form has been solid and my body is in good shape. I will take some time out post-season to have a think about what I might do.""