EXCITING Bombers prospect Scott Gumbleton has signed a two-year deal with Essendon that will see the young West Australian stay at the club until at least 2010.

The 197cm Gumbleton had been a figure of interest for several other clubs, but his re-signing has killed off speculation of a return to his home state.

"We understand that there was significant interest in Scott from other clubs, so we are proud that he has committed to being part of our future," Bombers coach Matthew Knights told the Herald Sun newspaper.

"Scott came from WA and the first year away from home is always difficult and, like many players, he went through that transition phase.

"But it is clear he has adjusted to the AFL environment in his second year. Apart from the obvious injury setbacks he has faced, he has become a really positive personality around the club."

Gumbleton has been limited to just five games, having suffered a series of hamstring and knee injuries.

Essendon are working on building up the tall key forward's lower back strength in the belief that his hamstring problems are back related.

"Scott has done the rehabilitation work with his hamstring injuries and our staff have been focusing on building him up to be stronger in the lower back and through the core to be able to cope with the rigours of AFL footy," Knights said.

Essendon are expecting Gumbleton to play with VFL affiliate the Bendigo Bombers within two to three weeks.