The relationship between Essendon captain Zach Merrett and the club is turning sour, with multiple Bombers stars declaring publicly they’re “disappointed”, and even “bitterly hurt”, by his interest in leaving.

Merrett’s meeting with Hawthorn officials, including coach Sam Mitchell , on Tuesday night has dramatically ramped up the speculation around the skipper requesting a trade away from Tullamarine.

Essendon coach Brad Scott spoke first publicly on Wednesday night , telling Fox Footy’s AFL 360 he expected Merrett to see through his commitment until 2027 after the club raised his salary twice over the past three seasons.

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