Essendon Football Club has secured the services of Mathew Stokes and James Polkinghorne for the 2016 season after both agreed to terms today.

Stokes, a skilful small forward, joins the Bombers after an impressive 189 game career at the Geelong Football Club.

The 31 year-old brings a wealth of experience to the Club after winning Premierships with the Cats in 2007 and 2011.

Polkinghorne, a high-possession winner and utility player has been elevated from the Essendon VFL squad after an impressive 2015 season which saw him rewarded with the Club’s Best & Fairest.

The 27 year-old joined the Bombers after playing 94 games and kicking 53 goals with the Brisbane Lions.

General Manager of Football, Rob Kerr, said the Club’s strategy is to target experienced players to provide support for its young group.

“We are building a squad that will enable us to be competitive this season and the players we have selected align with the Club’s vision and culture," he said.

“The current squad has put a lot of hard work in over the summer to date, and the challenge is to keep the group motivated and focused on the season ahead.

“We have depth in our young talent and this season will be a great year of development for them.”

The Club’s list of new recruits currently stands at six, with Stokes and Polkinghorne joining Ryan Crowley, Jonathan Simpkin, Matthew Dea and James Kelly at the True Value Solar Centre.