New recruit Jonathan Giles is hoping to form a formidable partnership with big man Tom Bellchambers for the Bombers during the 2015 season.

Giles was recruited to Essendon during the recent trade period in search of new opportunities following 51 matches with Greater Western Sydney.

The 26-year-old is expected to play a key role with Bellchambers in the absence of Patrick Ryder who opted to join Port Adelaide during the off-season.

The 201cm big man looked at home during his first day at the True Value Solar Centre as he underwent a light skills session and fitness testing on his first official day at the club.

“The plan is to work with big Tommy in the ruck and up forward so I have got to continually work on that at training,” Giles said.

“I am really excited about the opportunities here at the Bombers and being able to play for this great club.

“I just needed a bit of a fresh start, I loved the Giants and my time there but I wanted a fresh start.”

Originally from South Australia, Giles weighed up an offer from the Adelaide Crows before deciding to join the Bombers.

“The opportunity to come to a club like Essendon and be in Melbourne for a fresh start in a fresh place was exciting,” he said.

“I haven’t spent too much time in Melbourne so I am really looking forward to getting settled in, training hard and working hard up until Christmas."

Giles has shown an ability to be able to be able to push forward during his 51 AFL matches, currently with 39 goals to his name.

“I enjoy playing in the ruck and also up forward,” he said.

“I spent a lot of time in the ruck at the Giants which I liked but I also enjoyed working in the forward line.

“Coming to the Bombers, whatever opportunities open up, I am wanting to work hard at so I assume that somewhere in the forward line and somewhere in the ruck.”

Giles, Adam Cooney and James Gwilt officially met their new teammates at Monday’s first session of the 2015 pre-season.