An emotional Matthew Lloyd today said that other AFL clubs will be “wasting their time” should they approach him to play on next season.
As he announced his retirement from Essendon Football Club today, the 31-year-old dismissed speculation that he would play-on elsewhere next season saying he always wanted to be a one-club player.
“I can honestly say that in my 15 years I have never spoken to another AFL club,” Lloyd said.
“I always just wanted to play for the Essendon Football Club and have been proud of being a one-club player.
“This club has given me more than I have given it. I will never forget the times I have had here and how much I love this club.
“I will be forever indebted to the Essendon Football Club and all that it has given me. I walk taller and I am a proud man just because I can say I am a part of the Essendon Football Club.
“I am proud of the culture of the place, the class that it is held in and its fierce desire for success.
“I have had nothing but respect shown to me by the Essendon Football Club and I have returned that respect to the club but as I said earlier, I have only ever wanted to play for one club.”
To purchase tickets to the 30th September, 2009 Crichton Medal click here or to book a ticket to the annual The Long Walk - 2009 Women's Luncheon on 9th October click here.
Lloyd said he would miss the team atmosphere of the club but wished Matthew Knights and his team-mates well.
“Your team-mates are what you play footy for – the banter and sharing the thrill of a win. I know Lisa won’t miss them but I’ll miss the footy trips. I’ll even try to come as the chaperone to Vegas on footy trip next year,” Lloyd joked.
“I will miss all the staff, the doctors, the trainers, the football department – they were father figures and they were friends.
“I see nothing but a bright future for Matthew Knights and the football club and I want nothing more than to see Matthew coach the club to a winning final next year. I will be one of the happiest blokes being there to see that.""
The superstar goal kicker also thanked the fans for their support over his 16 years at Windy Hill.
“I took great pleasure in seeing kids with the number 18 on their backs and adults who had a respect for the way I carried myself and for what I did on the football field. I had a great respect for them too,” Lloyd said.
To see the full interview and Peter Jackson and media questions on Bomber.tv click here.
Meanwhile, the club has announced that Lloyd will be recognised in a number of ways including: a special club dinner (with Scott Lucas) in 2010, he will do a lap of honour with other retirees before Saturday's Grand Final and there are talks to have one end of Etihad Stadium named the 'Lloyd end' during Bomber home games.
