ESSENDON captain Matthew Lloyd has told the Bombers he needs more time to consider the one-year contract the club has offered him to remain at Windy Hill in 2010.

The new deal is on the table for the 31-year-old to sign, but the 270-game player wants to weigh up his options before committing to the club and coach Matthew Knights once again.

The club's general manager of football operations Paul Hamilton said the club had given Lloyd time to consider the offer and denied the skipper was considered bait for the upcoming trade period.

"Matthew said he needs more time to decide if he will sign a new contract and play in 2010, and we are respecting his wishes," Hamilton said on the club's website.

"He has been busy with a number of things, including the birth of his second daughter, and doesn't want to rush what is a very big decision for him.

"Naturally the football club, our supporters, sponsors and the wider football public are very interested in his decision but we will not be pressuring Matthew."

Hamilton also said reports Lloyd required a commitment from Knights to refrain from playing him away from goal were "simply not correct".

Knights has already told Lloyd he wants him to play on, but the five-time All-Australian is thought to be concerned about the rookie coach's youth movement and determination to trial Scott Gumbleton, Jay Neagle, Michael Hurley and Darcy Daniher in key forward roles.

However, the club is adamant it has done all it can to let Lloyd know he will be considered a valuable part of next year's side, should he choose to go on.

"Matthew Lloyd is a club champion and deserves to know the expectations the club has of him," Hamilton said.

"He knows there is a place for him in 2010 if he can physically and mentally commit to another season."