MELBOURNE has recruited world renowned fitness expert Darren Burgess to oversee the club’s fitness and medical program for the 2020 season.

Burgess comes to the club with a wealth of experience within the international sporting landscape and an impressive resume that will be extremely beneficial for the red and blue.

After what was a rigorous interview process, the Demons appointed Burgess as the performance manager, convinced he will be best placed to take the club forward in the future.

With the decision being confirmed on Thursday afternoon, General Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney said he was thrilled by the club’s selection.

“I think the whole football department is excited about Darren’s appointment,” Mahoney told Melbourne Media.

“His knowledge and experience in a wide range of areas is going to be crucial for our club.”

Burgess’ extensive experience world-wide will be a great asset for Melbourne, but Mahoney believes it’s his passion that stands out the most.

“I think the most important thing is how keen Darren is to be a part of our club,” Mahoney said.

“He’s passionate about the role and genuinely excited to get started, so he will be great to have on our team for years to come.”

Burgess joins the Dees after spending two years as the director of high performance at the Arsenal Football Club in the Premier League.

The 45-year-old’s time spent in one of the world’s most prominent sporting leagues will be extremely valuable for Melbourne, while his knowledge has also been utilised on an international level for the Australian Socceroos.

Importantly, Burgess is no stranger to the AFL system, nor to success, as he oversaw the fitness regime at Port Adelaide when it made the grand final in 2007.

The Dees’ newest addition will take charge of the fitness program when Melbourne commences its pre-season in November.

As announced earlier in the year, current Elite Performance Manager David Misson will be departing the club at season’s end, as he resigns to move to Canada with his family.