Essendon defender Conor McKenna has returned to his homeland of Ireland due to homesickness and family-related reasons.

General manager of football Dan Richardson said the 23-year-old had the club’s full support to return to his native country.

“We have been in lengthy discussions with Conor over recent weeks and we are completely supportive of him returning home to be with his family at this time,” Richardson said.

“We remain in constant communication with both Conor and his family and we will continue to provide our support during this period.”