John Curtin

ESSENDON premiership star Dean Solomon has emailed hundreds of former Bombers players, imploring them to come together, support new president Andrew Welsh and end any bickering. Solomon said the appointment of Welsh – “a bloke we have been in the trenches with” – was an opportunity to heal. “In my time as a player at Essendon F.C, I was incredibly lucky to witness the cultural ‘legacy leadership’ from the likes of Mark Harvey, Robert Shaw & Terry Daniher etc,” Solomon wrote in his email. “We were taught to have each other’s backs unconditionally - fiercely protect our own, the jumper & the club at all costs. We all win together, we all lose together. “Andrew is also a byproduct of this. This is what he stands for and what his vision reflects for the future of our club. It’s our turn to pass this onto our young playing group! “From today, I’m asking we become a united front once again. We throw our full support behind Andrew and give him every chance to maximise this opportunity to lead our club. “Today’s announcement is a big step in the right direction in getting the best version of EFC. “Lads, I’m asking you to come with us. We need you and want you onboard! It’s time to light the fire, get your passion back & be proud to be an Essendon person/player.”