Jake Stringer finally lands at Essendon after Western Bulldogs accept picks 25 and 30

JAKE Stringer believes he can emulate Dustin Martin’s remarkable feats and become a midfield star after finally finding his way to Essendon.

Jake Stringer is no longer a Bulldogs. Picture: Getty Images

JAKE Stringer believes he can emulate Dustin Martin’s remarkable feats and become a midfield star for Essendon.

The mercurial Bulldogs premiership player finally found his way to the Bombers, capping a stunning trade period haul for the Dons.

But while Devon Smith and Adam Saad are A-grade characters, Stringer has baggage that includes former gambling issues and infidelity to his estranged partner Abby Gilmore.

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His manager Robbie D’Orazio told the Herald Sun the 23-year-old, secured for picks 25 and 30, had a “point to prove”.

“He is extremely ready. He had a point to prove now, not only to himself but the entire footy world,” D’Orazio said.

“He wants to be a midfielder, he thinks he has the capabilities to be the next Dusty.

“If you look at Dustin Martin they are the same age, similar roles. Dustin has become the best player in the competition so whether he can reach those heights is up to Jake.

“It is a big call but he thinks he can do it.”

Jake Stringer in Essendon colours. Picture: essendonfc.com.au

Stringer knows he must improve his tank to be a regular midfielder rather than a forward who makes cameos up the ground.

He also needs to change perceptions that he is a lad who spends too much time partying and not enough caring about making himself an elite footballer.

“You will hear from Jake talking about becoming a better person off the field which will excite Essendon fans because he will also be a better player on it,” D’Orazio said.

“He has definitely got a point to prove and he’s excited by it and he’s driven.

“Speaking to him just then he’s ready to go for a run in New York and he’s ready to go.”

Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro said the club was confident it had not inherited a basket case.

“We have had some honest dialogue with Jake. He has been upfront with all the issues. We have spoken to as many people as we possibly can,” he said.

“He has some work to do but we think we have got the support and infrastructure around him so we can get the very best out of him for many years to come.”

Originally published as Jake Stringer finally lands at Essendon after Western Bulldogs accept picks 25 and 30