Former Essendon captains James Hird and Dyson Heppell have expressed support for Zach Merrett and hope he will stay at their embattled AFL club.

Essendon's disastrous year hit a new low a fortnight ago, with the revelation that skipper Merrett had met with Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell about a potential move.

The Bombers have been adamant since that Merrett, who is contracted, will not be traded.

There was some good news on Tuesday, with contracted defender Jordan Ridley saying he would no longer seek a trade to Brisbane.

"Zachy - he's an extreme competitor, he wants to win, he wants to get the absolute most out of his career and he has been an unbelievable servant for Essendon," said Heppell, who preceded Merrett as Bombers captain.

"He's gone to have a conversation with another club -

See Full Page