Essendon’s estranged skipper Zach Merrett has held a private meeting with club vice president Andrew Welsh, in an apparent attempt to improve relations after a week of turbulence.

Merrett met with Welsh on Thursday, a matter of nine days after the captain held a meeting with Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell and his main lieutenant Rob McCartney.

The meeting with Welsh is significant, given the deteriorating relationship between the star player and Essendon, who have stuck steadfastly to their public position that Merrett will not be traded.

Merrett also is likely to see Essendon people at the Brownlow Medal count on Monday night, given that he has replied to the AFL and indicated he will attend.

While the Bombers have stated that Merrett, who is contracted to the club for a further two year

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