Essendon chief executive Xavier Campbell says the Bombers are as hungry as they have been in a decade

ESSENDON chief executive Xavier Campbell has declared the Bombers as hungry as they have been in a decade. But he also knows that won’t guarantee the club a place in the top four.

Jake Stringer with Bombers coach John Worsfold. Picture: essendonfc.com.au

ESSENDON chief executive Xavier Campbell has declared the Bombers as hungry as they have been in a decade.

Speaking at Wednesday night’s season launch, Campbell said that the additions of the likes of recruits Jake Stringer, Devon Smith and Adam Saad have attracted talk of a top-four finish.

But Campbell has declared that the team “will not only be measured on wins and losses”.

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“With the addition of our new recruits comes the external expectation that we’re guaranteed a top four finish, some even have us winning the premiership,” Campbell said.

“It’s foolish to think that football is that simple. We are not focused on the outcome, we are focused on the process.

AFL boss Gillon McLachlan with Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell at the Australian Open. Picture: Michael Klein

“Our players have a clear vision and know if they want to achieve success it will be through hard work and driving their elite standards.”

Campbell, who was appointed as the club’s CEO in 2014, said the club’s position is unrivalled when compared with the last 10 years.

“In almost a decade at Essendon I have never observed the level of commitment, the hunger, and willingness of everyone within our four walls to challenge each other to keep improving,” he said.

“We should have hope in what we can achieve this season because of the strong leadership, the formation of unbreakable bonds and the unwavering support teammates, peers and colleagues have for each another.”

As reported by the Herald Sun last week, the Bombers remain on track to secure coach John Worsfold for a further two seasons by Round 1.

“(GM of football) Dan Richardson, John and myself have had a number of discussions about what the future looks like for Essendon and John, and I’m happy to report both parties are extremely comfortable with the dialogue that has unfolded to date,” Campbell said

“While there is no rush to finalise this process, we are confident we will be in a position to provide you with an update before the season starts.

Essendon Intra Club practise match at Tullamarine. coach John Worsfold keeps an eye on todays proceedings. Pic: Michael Klein

“I know John is excited about the challenge of the impending season and we all look forward to watching the team take their game to the next level.”

Campbell also announced that club greats Neale Daniher, Harold Lambert, Roger Merrett and Dr Ian Reynolds will in May be inducted into the club’s hall of fame at a dinner that will also celebrate the 25th anniversary of the 1993 “Baby Bombers” premiership.