North Melbourne co-captain Luke McDonald says troubled teammate Tarryn Thomas “seems in a better place” forward of his return to soccer.
The 22-year-old stepped away from the Kangaroos final month after being charged with threatening to distribute an intimate picture, however is ready to play two quarters in a VFL follow match this weekend, per week out from North Melbourne’s round-one AFL conflict with West Coast.
“Tarryn’s been through a lot the last few months, or couple of years, but the club has put a really strong program in place to help him,” McDonald mentioned.
“He’s followed that to a tee and that’s why he’s going to be playing VFL this weekend.”
While a chance to renew at AFL degree should be a way off, the promising midfielder has cleared the air with teammates as a part of his current return to the membership.
“He’s spoken to the group. There’s not too much I can say but it was good to hear from him and it is good to have him around.
“As a teammate, you’re there to support him and support all your teammates.”
McDonald additionally revealed new coach Alastair Clarkson spoke to the enjoying group about his confrontation with a feminine journalist over her reporting on Thomas.
Clarkson mentioned in an announcement he had “great regret” in regards to the incident.
“He addressed that, but I love how loyal he is as a coach,” McDonald mentioned.
“Other than your teammates, the one you want to have your back the most is the coach – and there’s no doubt about that with Clarko.”
The first few months of Clarkson’s tenure at Arden Street have been rocky, with an AFL investigation into allegations of racism throughout his time at Hawthorn but to be resolved, however McDonald couldn’t be happier along with his new coach.
“It’s been awesome. Clarko’s footy knowledge speaks for itself so I just feel really lucky to have him.
“I’ve been at the club for 10 years and it’s probably the most excited I’ve been about a group coming through.
“With Clarko, you know the competitive nature of him. He’s here to win silverware so I’m really excited about the journey ahead.”
McDonald is hopeful the membership can stand up the ladder following consecutive picket spoon seasons, tipping a handful of younger Roos to make massive strides in 2023.
“Will Phillips and Tom Powell have both worked really hard, and have both come back in really good condition … they’re two guys that will take another step this year.”
Number three draft decide Harry Sheezel additionally appears to be like set to play an thrilling position in his first AFL season.
“When you come in as a high draft pick there’s always a bit of chatter but he’s absolutely lived up to it.
“Some of the things he’s done in training and in the practice matches … his goal nous is something you can’t teach.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
