Essendon Football Club is pleased to announce, Patrick Ambrose, has agreed to a new two year deal.

Ambrose began his career as a forward but has transformed himself into a vital cornerstone of the Bombers’ backline.

The 25-year-old defender’s contract extension will see him don the sash until at least the end of 2019.

“I’m really excited to extend my career at the Club for another two years, Essendon has backed me since I arrived and I’m confident in what we’re building towards as a team,” Ambrose said.

“I’m looking forward to what we can achieve over the coming seasons. We’ve got some great young talent and a number of guys at the right age who can help us push for finals.

“I’m really enjoying playing my football down back. Playing down back really suits my game, I enjoy the challenge of going head to head with my opponent and now I’m trying to develop into an attacking defender."

Last season Ambrose was named the Club’s Most Improved Player in 2016 following his impressive season in defence.

Senior Coach, John Worsfold, said Ambrose is the ultimate team player.

“Paddy’s a terrific young man who’s really driven to do what’s best for the team, he’s fully invested in the culture and vision we’re building and it’s fantastic to have him signed on for a further two years,” Worsfold said.

“Paddy’s highly respected by his teammates, and his seamless transition into the backline is great reward for his hard work. He is an exceptional athlete and I know he’s really driven to become a more attacking defender over the coming seasons.

“There’s no doubt Paddy is an important part of our defensive group, and we can’t wait to see him back in the mix for selection once he’s fully recovered from his quad injury. That shouldn’t be too far away which is really pleasing for us.”

Essendon List and Recruiting Manager, Adrian Dodoro, said Ambrose epitomised the Club’s values.

“Paddy has shown great resilience and diligence to forge his AFL career,” Dodoro said.

“His dedication and work ethic cannot be questioned and his development both on and off the field has been impressive since he arrived at the Club.

“We believe Paddy still has some of his best football ahead of him, so we are really looking forward to what he will continue to offer the Club over the next couple of years.”

Ambrose was recruited to Essendon’s VFL side from the Old Xaverians. His impressive form in the VFL was rewarded when he was select by the Club with pick 26 in the 2014 Rookie Draft.

Ambrose made his debut in Round 1, 2014 against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, and has played 55 games in the red and black.