ANDREW Lovett has embraced Essendon and is determined to make his time at the club successful after he could not be traded, according to his manager.

The speedy winger's disciplinary problems in 2008 prompted the Bombers to seek a trade for the 25-year-old, but despite Geelong's interest, a deal could not be reached before Friday's deadline.

Lovett's manager Alex McDonald said his client had realised he needed to change to make a success of himself.

"He's embraced Essendon and he understands that's going to be his workplace," McDonald said.

"So he knows he needs to put his head down, get a lot fitter and play some good footy next year.

"It's a hard one, because he understood why Essendon wanted to trade him and encouraged him to look at other options.

"But it hasn't worked out, so he needs to make a success of it now."

Essendon senior coach Matthew Knights plans to work with Lovett to resurrect his career following confirmation he will remain at Windy Hill in 2009.

"I'm not sure whether it's the wake-up call he needs but maybe the last five or six weeks has been an education in itself going through this process," Knights said.

"Andrew has got a pretty good understanding of what he needs to do. His football talent and his ability to play is unquestioned, there is no issue there.

"What Andrew and I have to work through is that he keeps his dedication in check and I'm sure if he does that he will be a good player for us next year."