An exciting young list and long-standing relationships with St Kilda’s coaching staff were key factors in Jake Carlisle’s decision to select the Saints as his preferred new home.

Speaking on Trade Radio this morning, Carlisle said he that he would seek a trade from Essendon to St Kilda ending weeks of speculation about where he wanted to go.

RELATED: Carlisle picks Saints

“I looked at how young they are and how exciting they have played this year and I see myself as a perfect fit,” Carlisle told Trade Radio.

“I’ve just turned 24 and hopefully I can finish off my career there and I can help the young kids develop as well.”

The Bombers and Saints will now conduct negotiations during the trade period - which starts Monday, 12^th October - to work out a suitable deal.

St Kilda coach Alan Richardson worked with Carlisle in the key-position player’s first season at the Bombers in 2010, while Saints defensive coach Rohan Welsh was his coach with Vic Metro in the Under-18 championships in 2009.

Carlisle said he harboured leadership ambitions and saw plenty of potential in the young St Kilda group.

“I want to show the young kids how to develop and live as an AFL footballer,” he said.

“With Richo and Rohan, I have good relationships with them and I feel they can help me become a better footballer and person - the way they show the young boys the ropes is very positive and exciting.”