Essendon interim coach Dean Solomon discussed Zach Merrett’s new half-back role, indicating he’ll persist with it.
Solomon said: “We found there was enough good in (Merrett at half back). Zach himself would say he probably didn’t use the ball the way that he would like, to his high level as a champion of this football club. He’ll continue to be great for this club and we’d like to move him to half back and generate a bit more forward movement with the ball.
“There are a lot of little tweaks that we’re making, and this is why it’s taking a little bit of time to get some traction but we are seeing some positive stuff and we’ll continue with that.”
Caleb Windsor has been managed for Melbourne’s game with Essendon, due to an ongoing toe issue.
Melbourne GM of AFL Football Performance Alan Richardson explained: “Caleb has been managing a big toe ligament sprain he sustained in our Round 9 game against West Coast.
“Given we have a five-day break, Caleb will be managed for this week’s game against Essendon. He is a young player, and we want to ensure we are setting him up well for the remainder of the season.”
Dees coach Steven King also downplayed any injury concerns for ruckman Max Gawn who has been nursing a shoulder issue.
King said: “I think in Alice Springs the week before he got tackled on the cricket pitch that was there. We’ve got a bye in a couple of weeks, so he’s fine. It’ll just be one of those things at this time of year to get managed during the week, but he’ll be fine to go.”
Richmond has named an extended squad for their clash with Brisbane, but has already ruled out Jack Ross despite coming off the bye. The Tigers update said: “Jack Ross will miss the match due to the concussion he suffered against Sydney in Round 12.”
West Coast revealed some surprising injury news, with both Tom McCarthy and Willem Duursma ruled out for their Saturday clash with North Melbourne.
The Eagles update said: “Unfortunately, No.1 draft pick Willem Duursma has joined star defender Reuben Ginbey (quad) and McCarthy on the sidelines due to a calf injury, ruling him out of a second battle against his brother Zane.”
West Coast described McCarthy’s injury as a “hamstring complaint”, with coach Andrew McQualter discussing his status earlier on Thursday. He said: “He’s a little bit sore. So we’ll give him every chance. He’s obviously really important to us. We’ll take that to the line and see where it lands.”
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Ben Somerford
