ESSENDON has locked away another of its young players, with defender Martin Gleeson inking a two-year contract extension.

Gleeson played 20 matches this year in his fourth season at the Bombers.

The 22-year-old told the club's website he was excited about the future at Essendon, with nine of the 12 banned players having confirmed their return. Jobe Watson has yet to announce whether he will play on while Tayte Pears has retired and Michael Hibberd is seeking a trade to Melbourne.

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"I've really enjoyed my first season under Woosha (coach John Worsfold) and I’m excited to be continuing my career at Essendon,” Gleeson said.

"The bond amongst the players is really strong, we have made some great progress as a playing group this season, we are demanding elite standards of each other and building a really strong team culture.

"We know we have plenty of hard work ahead of us if we want to compete with the elite sides in the competition, but we also have so much to look forward to in 2017 and this is a team I want to be part of."

Football manager Rob Kerr spoke highly of Gleeson's work ethic.

"Marty has proved himself as an important part of our senior list and an important part of our future," Kerr said. 

"He is a highly respected member of our playing group and the competitive spirit he brings to the side each week is invaluable.

"Since Marty arrived at the club he has displayed great professionalism and maturity."

Gleeson was drafted at No. 53 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft.

The announcement of his re-signing comes in the wake of Aaron Francis signing an extension to see him at the club until at least the end of 2019.