Banned Essendon captain Jobe Watson speaks after returning to Melbourne

BANNED Essendon player Jobe Watson touched on his future this morning after returning from the US, saying he was happy to be home but undecided if he will play again.

BANNED Essendon player Jobe Watson has emerged from his Middle Park home this morning after returning from the United States.

But Watson, who was banned for playing for a year after the club’s doping scandal, says he still doesn’t know what’s in store for him next season.

Essendon captain Jobe Watson returns to Melbourne, close to decision on playing future

When asked about talks for the 2017 season, Watson said: “I’m not really sure, I just haven’t really had a chance to talk to a lot of people so I’m just getting back and seeing everyone, and then I’ll see how I feel.”

Watson landed back in Melbourne yesterday. Picture: Nicole Garmston

Watson spoke briefly with the Herald Sun after picking up a coffee. Picture: Nicole Garmston

Essendon coach John Worsfold says he would love to see Watson play on. Picture: Nicole Garmston

“I’m just really happy to be home, and see the family, and see the dog.”

A visibly slimmer Watson was sporting a beard when he emerged from his Middle Park home today.

Watson jetted into Melbourne airport at 6.23am yesterday on a Qantas flight from Los Angeles, returning to Australian shores for the first time in several months.

Bombers coach John Worsfold is expected to sit down with Watson in the next week.

“I’ve said before I’d love to see him play on,” Worsfold said on Wednesday.

“We know he has a passion for the game, but that has been challenged.

“I would love Jobe, when he finishes his playing career whether that is now or whether that’s in a year or two years’ time, to remember how much he loves the game.

“That’s what we’d like to offer him, that opportunity.”