Irving Mosquito Biography

Essendon delist Irving Mosquito, Ned Cahill and Lachie Johnson.

Despite being delisted, Irving Mosquito says he is grateful for the Bombers' support throughout his time away after being granted a leave of absence in May to return to his hometown of Halls Creek as he managed his rehabilitation program from a long-term ACL injury.

"It was a pretty tough decision to come to, and I had to weigh up whether I could commit to a full 12-month recovery program to get my knee right. In the end, I realised I didn't have the passion that was required to get back so it's the right time to consider life away from football," Mosquito said.

"The club has been great with their support of me and my family, I can't thank them enough. I will miss my teammates and being at the club every day. I wish the boys well for next season, I'll always love this club."

Irving Mosquito is likely to miss the entire 2021 season after rupturing the ACL in his left knee late in the third quarter of Essendon's match against Geelong at the Gabba.

"Irving will require surgery and the club will fully support him during what will likely be a traditional 12-month rehabilitation process," Essendon general manager of football Dan Richardson said.

Irving Mosquito makes his AFL debut for Essendon with 8 disposals (5 kicks and 3 handballs), 2 marks, 2 tackles and 2 goals in a 12-point loss to Richmond.

Essendon pinches Irving Mosquito from Hawthorn's grasp, securing the Hawks' next generation academy prospect with pick No.38 in the 2018 NAB AFL Draft.

Hawthorn had first priority on the NGA prospect under AFL rules, but decided to baulk at the price of bringing the raw small forward into its club.

"My family goes for Essendon. I've supported them since I was like four or five years old," Mosquito said.

"My dad used to talk about Longy (Michael Long) and how committed to footy he was, all while representing indigenous people."