New Bomber Andrew Phillips says it is “humbling” to have the unwavering support of Essendon legend Kevin Sheedy.

Phillips was a part of the Sheedy’s inaugural Greater Western Sydney squad and the ruckman has drawn plenty of praise from the super coach ever since.

He said it’s exciting to join another club that’s been so shaped by the towering football figure.

“I’ve had a bit of a dealing with Sheeds early on at GWS, so it’s nice to come back, have his backing and see the big fella,” Phillips said on Monday.

“It’s nice to have the backing from anyone, but especially Sheeds, having his word and having him back in is pretty humbling.

“He started out with us and a lot of young players who were at GWS. That was the fledgling of our AFL life, so he and a few other coaches played a pretty big part in it.”

Following his 14 games at GWS, Phillips crossed to Carlton where he had an immediate impact with 16 AFL games in 2016 before adding another six across his next two seasons.

He impressed with limited opportunities in the senior side again this year, averaging 11.4 disposals and 29.4 hitouts from his five matches. And despite some frustrations, Phillips said he will take plenty out of those impressive efforts going forward.

“I built a lot of confidence out of this year and had some really solid performances,” he said.

“There was a bit of inconsistency there and it’s something I’ll look to build on. It was frustrating at times, but that’s the AFL in general.”

Phillips stands 202cm tall and said his tap work and mobility for his size are among his key strengths.

“My centre-bounce (work) is something that I pride myself on, it’s a real strength of mine and something I look to the table.

“Being able to cover the ground and take contested marks around the ground is obviously important for a big man.”

The last few weeks have been somewhat of a blur for the 28-year-old who was on his honeymoon during the frantic trade period.

Now back in town, Phillips is looking forward to finding his feet at The Hangar with his new red and black teammates.

“It’s been a pretty whirlwind couple of weeks, so I just want to come in, settle in well, build some good relationships and hopefully call this place home for a while.

“I haven’t had too much of an opportunity to get in and around, I’ve floated in and out and bumped into a few boys around the gym.

“The influx of texts and calls over the last couple of weeks has been fantastic.”