FORMER Imperials footballer Matt Dea will retire from AFL football at the end of Essendon's 2019 campaign.

The 27-year-old told teammates on Monday of his decision.

He played 31 games for Richmond after being drafted in 2009 before joining Essendon in 2016 and playing 39 games for the Bombers.

"I want to acknowledge both the Essendon and Richmond football clubs for the opportunity to live out m...