Veterans’ career calls are in focus

ESSENDON insist Jobe Watson’s future won’t be decided until after the season, but a call on fellow AFL veteran Brent Stanton could come sooner.

A consistent performer throughout his 252-game career, Stanton has struggled in his return to senior football after serving a doping ban last season with 33 other past and present Bombers.

The 31-year-old has languished in the VFL for much of the season, with his last senior appearance coming in Round 11.

Coach John Worsfold has confirmed Stanton is in ongoing discussions with the club about his future and an announcement could be made before the end of the season.

“It’s possible if we come to a decision before the end of the season, and that will just be the ongoing discussions with Brent (about) how he’s feeling and where we’re at,” Worsfold said.

“We’ll be really open and honest in terms of what his role may be at the club next year and how he’s feeling.”

With 10th-placed Essendon still in the race to make the finals, Worsfold said former skipper Watson remained on track to play out the season.