New North Melbourne captains Luke McDonald and Jy Simpkin have vowed to wrap their arms round Tarryn Thomas because the troubled utility offers with an AFL integrity unit investigation.
Thomas skilled at Arden St on Monday, 5 days after the Kangaroos introduced he had been charged with threatening to distribute an intimate picture.
The 22-year-old additionally discovered himself in hassle in the course of the Christmas interval when he was stopped by police whereas driving with a suspended licence.
It comes after Thomas struggled to course of the dying of his grandmother final 12 months, admitting the non-public tragedy affected his kind.
He performed solely 10 AFL video games final season and was dropped from the senior aspect in June for not assembly coaching requirements.
“We’re always there supporting Tarryn,” McDonald advised reporters on Monday.
“There’s obviously not too much we can say, but Tarryn’s a great kid, as talented as any kid on our list and we’re going to be there for him and we’re going to help him through this journey we’re on.”
After primarily enjoying by way of the midfield and up ahead in his 57 video games for North, Thomas may very well be set for a transfer to defence this season beneath new coach Alastair Clarkson.
“He’s been doing a lot of work with the backline, and gee whiz, he’s been super down there,” Thomas mentioned.
“It’s a big year for the whole footy club, but if we can get Tarryn out there for 22 games he’s going to make a big difference to our side.
“He’s received some severe tips and he may very well be an actual weapon for us off the half-back line.”
McDonald and Simpkin, who have split North’s last three best-and-fairest awards, said they would lean heavily on Jack Ziebell’s experience after the veteran recently stood down from the captaincy following six seasons in the job.
It is the first time in the Kangaroos’ history they have elected co-captains.
“We’re fortunate Jack’s nonetheless right here and Clarko has clearly labored with numerous actually sturdy leaders,” McDonald mentioned.
