The former Essendon midfielder is jetting to Perth after signing with West Australian Football League club Peel Thunder.  

“I’m a little nervous, a little scared but excited at the same time,” the 25-year-old said.

“Looking forward to a new adventure and getting stuck into it. The style of football over in the WAFL suits my game style well and the people around the club seem like genuinely good people and that’s something I value with culture.”

The opportunity to play with a friend and former teammate in Ben Howlett was attractive for Merrett.

“It brings that enjoyment level (playing with a friend) and no matter where you play you want to enjoy your football,” he said.

“It’s mainly the enjoyment factor, I want to enjoy it and hopefully I can get some success in my footballing career, as I haven’t played in too many finals, so hopefully we can have some success next year.”

Merrett, whose younger brother Zach is a key player with the Bombers’ AFL side, said the move away from family in Victoria was the hardest part of his newest adventure.

“It will be difficult to start off with but I have their full support,” the right footed on-baller said. 

“They are always welcome to come over and visit and I’m sure once we get there and settle in we will make some new friends. But it will be difficult though.”