Stephen Coniglio is no closer to deciding on his AFL future but admits he needs to "cash in" on his ability and is braced for all the scrutiny that will follow him as his contract with Greater Western Sydney ticks closer to expiry.

Coniglio's bargaining position with the Giants and any other interested clubs was boosted significantly on Sunday with a best-on-ground display in the team's 72-point demolition of Essendon.

Please stay, mate: Sam Reid embraces Stephen Coniglio after the midfield gun starred in the Giants' big round one win over Essendon. Credit:AAP

The midfield superstar tallied 31 disposals, seven tackles, five clearances and three goals as GWS took an abject Bombers outfit to the cleaners. Such performances illustrate why the likes of Carlton and Hawthorn are reportedly set to make big-money offers at the end of the season when Coniglio, 25, is due to become a restricted free agent.

Coniglio knows the score. He has seen the circus that surrounds star players in contract years before - including teammate Josh Kelly, who knocked back interest from North Melbourne two years ago to stay put in Sydney's west, but is also reaching the end of his current deal.