MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 6: Dyson Heppell of the Bombers comes onto the field after half time during the 2015 AFL round 23 match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Essendon Bombers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia on September 6, 2015. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Bombers skipper Dyson Heppell has signed a new two-year contract extension.

It is believed that he has been widely backed by the playing list and club hierarchy to stay on as captain in 2020 for his fourth year in charge.

Originally contracted until the end of next season, the new deal will tie the 27-year old to Essendon until the end of 2022.

“When the approach was made, it was a fairly straightforward process to recommit to the club and it’s nice to have it done before the break,” Heppell told essendonfc.com.au. 

“I am incredibly proud to be able to wear the Essendon jumper and play for the side that I grew up supporting, but to go around again as captain of the club again is a true honour.

“There is a really good feeling at the club and the boys are all really committed to continual improvement. We’re not setting any limits on what we can achieve next year but we know we need to build our consistency to match it with the top sides on-field.

“We have laid some really solid foundations and we’ll build on those into the pre-season next year when we come back from the Christmas break.”

Highlights of the midfielder's career include claiming the Rising Star award (2011), an All Australian jumper (2014) and a best and fairest (2014).

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro was pleased to see the 169-gamer recommit.

"There’s no doubting Dyson Heppell’s commitment and loyalty to the Essendon Football Club. He is a great captain,” Dodoro said.

“Dyson is an important part of the future of Essendon, not only through what he offers on-field but his leadership and drive in demanding the best from himself and his peers.”