Adam Saad wants to be traded to Carlton.Credit:Getty Images
Essendon have downplayed the impact of a number of senior players wanting out,saying that new senior coach Ben Rutten needs players who are"fully committed to his vision".
Amid the fallout of Adam Saad and Joe Daniher confirming publicly that they wanted to depart Tullamarine,the club's general manager of football Dan Richardson admitted that a cultural shift was taking place as John Worsfold departs after five seasons as senior coach.
Asked specifically whether there was anything the Essendon hierarchy could have done better to placate the likes of Saad and Daniher – who are seeking moves to Carlton and the Brisbane Lions respectively – Richardson said the challenges presented by 2020 had been difficult for everyone.
"I think we're always looking to improve,"Richardson told 3AW.
"I think the hub environment … for some players has been more challenging than others.
"But culturally I think there's a shift taking place."
Reflecting on Saad and Daniher's decisions,Richardson said the Bombers felt both players had been"50-50"chances to stay.
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"Adam was probably a little bit more surprising that Joe,but nonetheless I guess with player movement becoming more active in recent times,with the introduction of free agency,he's obviously weighed up a number of things including a compelling offer from Carlton,"Richardson said.