300-gamer wants to play on
ESSENDON veteran Brendon Goddard has declared he wants to continue as he prepares to play his 300th game.
The 32-year-old will reach the milestone in Saturday’s clash with Greater Western Sydney at Spotless Stadium, having played 205 games with St Kilda before joining the Bombers at the end of 2012.
An All-Australian in 2009 and 2010, Goddard has been a key contributor this year and says he hopes to sign a deal to play on next season.
“I would have thought that towards the end of the year, (2018) will sort itself out,” he said.
“That’s probably a two-way street. I’ll probably say one thing and the club might have different thoughts.
“Physically, I feel really good and, mentally, I’m in a good space.
“If all things are equal, we’re both heading in the right direction and have the same opinion, I’ll continue to play for as long as I think I can help.”
Apart from 2007, with a knee reconstruction, Goddard has played the majority of games for the past 15 seasons and says he is reaping the rewards from his meticulous preparation for games.
A fierce competitor, he believes there have been times where his fiery personality has been misunderstood, including by his own teammates.
“There’s no doubt I’ve stepped over the line on occasions and I’ve known the areas I needed to improve,” Goddard said.
He said moving to Essendon had helped to revitalise his career.