2002: McPhee played 11 matches for Fremantle in 2002, including the Round 6 match when the Dockers defeated Essendon by 27-points. Although not missing a game through injury, McPhee was constantly dogged by osteitis pubis for much of the season – a condition that he is now basically rid of. The groin condition made it difficult for McPhee to train freely, his form suffered and the opportunities began to dry up. He played most of his football in defence when given ground time in the seniors. It was a season that fell short of expectations for the 2001 Norwich Rising Star nominee but he can now put that behind him and make a fresh start.

Strengths: McPhee is an excellent mark and a tough nut. His good hands and sure ball handling ensured he looked at home from the moment he made his debut in 2001. His marking ability also gives him versatility – he could pinch hit up forward or be used as a marking option across the midfield. McPhee isn’t short on courage and the Bombers might have been a little short on the “crash and bang” type player in recent times.

Position: Just where McPhee slots into the senior side is an unknown quantity. He could go down back but Essendon has an abundance of options in defence. It is possible he could slot onto a wing where his attack on the football will be useful at midfield stoppages and his marking can be used as an effective link between defence and attack.

2003: McPhee has said he doesn’t expect to arrive at Essendon and become an instant replacement for the likes of Caracella, Blumfield and Heffernan. He is his own player and he wants to carve out his own place in the side. He will be very keen to repay the faith shown in him by Essendon – the Bombers’ recruiting staff have been keen on him for quite some time. 2003 will be an exciting year for McPhee and the Essendon fans who haven’t seen a lot of him.

Kevin Sheedy says: Adam is a local boy coming back to Essendon after three years in Perth where he missed a lot of games due to injury. We are looking forward to his commitment to this club and himself to show Fremantle that he can play terrific football.We could play him at centre half back or on a wing, although we see him as a similar player to Paul Barnard who can go down to the forward line and kick goals.