Andrew Lovett has embraced Essendon and is determined to make his time at the AFL 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 today'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 coach Matthew Knights said the Dons and Cats discussed trading for Lovett, but could not strike a deal.
"Now the deal hasn't been done, I think it's a good opportunity for Andrew to come back and play really good footy and I'm sure he'll be really determined to do that," Knights saaid.
Knights said the last month would be beneficial for Lovett in the long run as he now understood what he needed to do to make the most of his sublime talent.
"His football talent and his ability to play is unquestioned, there's no issue there," he said.
"What Andrew and I have got to work through is making sure he keeps his dedication in check and I'm sure if he does that, he'll be a good player for us next year."
