ESSENDON veteran Jason Winderlich has retired – for the second time.

The 30-year-old midfielder first called it quits in 2014, but was persuaded to go around again with the Bombers this season after flirting with a move to Richmond.

However, after just one senior match this season Winderlich has decided it is all over, saying he could walk away from the game knowing he had nothing left to give. 

"I'm disappointed I could only manage to play one senior game this season," Winderlich told the club website. 

"It's been well documented my career has been interrupted by injury, and while this year didn't pan out the way I would have liked, I hang up the boots with no regrets. 

"The club has been fantastic to me, and I've said it before, but to play for the team you supported as a kid is incredible, and I've made plenty of life-long mates along the way. 

"I'll miss the banter around the rooms with the boys and (club doctor Bruce Reid), but it's time for me to turn my attention to my family and my business and I'm excited about the next chapter of my life. 

"The members and fans have always been good to me and I can't thank them enough for the way they've supported me over my career, and I hope they stick by the boys next season and beyond."

Drafted from Gippsland under 18s with pick number 11 at the 2002 draft, Winderlich made his debut against Richmond in round seven 2003.

In a career blighted with injury, especially a persistent back problem, he managed 129 games, with his best season in 2010, when he finished third in the Essendon best and fairest award.