Essendon veteran Matthew Leuenberger has announced his retirement from the AFL.

Leuenberger played 29 games in the red and black, following 108 games for the Brisbane Lions.

The ruckman was offered a contract by the Club but wished to begin a new chapter of his life outside of football.

Leuenberger thanked the Club for the opportunity to play at Essendon.

“I would like to thank the club for the past three years,” Leuenberger said.

“It has been a thrill to experience the likes of ANZAC Day and watch the group grow to a point where anything is possible next season.

“I felt like the flame is now burning too low to compete every day at training let alone game day, and it would have been selfish of me to show up for another season.

“I look forward to sitting back as an Essendon fan to watch next season unfold.

“Everyone should be excited in the direction Essendon is going. For those who don’t see it every week, there are some brilliant kids coming through the VFL and their development along with the recent success at the trade table makes for a really exciting time.

“I would like to thank my teammates, coaches, friends, fans and in particular my family who have supported me through every up and down.

“Also, to the Brisbane Lions who gave me my first opportunity to play football at the highest level, thank you.”

Leuenberger joined the club during the 2015 NAB AFL Trade Period as a free agent.

GM Football, Dan Richardson, thanked Leuenberger for his commitment to the Bombers over his three years at The Hangar.

“Leuey is a great person and although we would’ve loved to see him continue, we are excited to see what lies ahead for him in the future,” Richardson said.

“He has shown dedication in all that he does and has been a great mentor to our younger players through their development.

“On behalf of the Essendon Football Club, I wish Leuey, Jess, Luca and Bodhi all the best for the next chapter.”

Sad to see big Leuey pull up stumps. Great person to have around the club. Athough he didn’t play at senior as much as he might have liked over the past year, it didn’t stop him from contributing enormously to the club and to the playing group. All the best to he, Jess & the boys — Xavier Campbell (@xaviercampbell) October 23, 2018

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