Matthew Lloyd today agreed in principle to a two-year deal with the Essendon Football Club.

Lloyd, 21, said he was pleased to have reached an agreement with the club so that he could concentrate fully on the rest of this season.

"It really hadn't been playing on my mind but it is nice to have it out of the way. All I want to do now is work hard and repay the faith the club has shown in me," Lloyd said.

Essendon chief executive Peter Jackson said the club was thrilled to have retained the services of lloyd.

"Matthew is a high quality person and footballer. The whole club is pleased that he is remaining at Windy hill," Jackson said.