Watson had his appeal of a 12-month ban thrown out in a Swedish court and subsequently decided to part with the medal out of respect for this who came before him.

“Jobe has remained unassailably dignified under the most extraordinary pressure over the past four years,” Essendon chairman Lindsay Tanner said.

“The Club takes responsibility for placing Jobe in this position and unreservedly apologises to him and his family.

“Jobe is a person of the highest integrity and character and has the total support and admiration of our membership, staff, executive and board.

“The Essendon family has been, and will continue to be, incredibly proud of Jobe Watson.”

Watson will return in 2017 after committing to a one-year deal with the club.

He spent most of 2016 travelling the world.