Stringer aiming to be next Dusty

JAKE Stringer believes he can emulate Dustin Martin’s remarkable feats as a midfield star for Essendon next year.

The mercurial Bulldogs premiership player finally found his way to the Bombers yesterday, 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 estranged wife Abby. His manager, Robbie D’Orazio, said yesterday the 23-year-old, secured for picks 25 and 30, had a “point to prove”.

The Bombers and his management firm will put in place support mechanisms to help him tackle his issues. Martin also has a chequered past, but Stringer sees him as an inspiration given their similarities in explosive game style.

“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.”

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.”