Lance Franklin’s teammates say the Swans celebrity will enter his nineteenth season “fit and good to go”, with extra success firmly on his thoughts in what may very well be his ultimate yr.
The goalkicking legend is the oldest participant within the competitors at 36, and has been the lone remaining participant from the draft class of 2004 since Eddie Betts hung up the boots on the finish of 2021.
Franklin performed all bar two matches final season to guide Sydney’s assault with 52 targets, and whereas coach John Longmire has managed expectations of comparable feats in 2023, he stated he was raring to go after a “long pre-season”.
“I’ve been looking forward to getting back out there and playing, that’s for sure,” Franklin stated.
“It’s been a long pre-season for everyone, and we are really excited about getting out there and heading to the Gold Coast, and getting a win, hopefully.”
Fellow star ahead Isaac Heeney stated Franklin would undoubtedly be able to play within the Swans’ season opener at Metricon Stadium on Saturday evening, regardless of a irritating pre-season which included a calf criticism over Christmas.
“He’s obviously had a slow build-up, which he’s not necessarily happy about because all he wants to do is get out there and train and play,” Heeney stated.
“He’s looking fit and he’s good to go … hopefully he can have that big impact that he’s had over the past 18 years.
“I think it’s all dependent on his body.”
Heeney stated he wouldn’t be stunned if Franklin pushed on into 2024, such is the eight-time All-Australian’s lasting love of the sport.
“If it is his last season, I’ll cherish knowing that I’ve played with arguably the best player to play the game,” Heeney stated.
“But we’ll see what happens, and I’m sure he’ll want to keep playing until his body gives up.”
Franklin stated he was excited by the upside of Sydney’s younger forwards and is assured the facet can enhance on the again of a variety of rising stars.
Errol Gulden’s dominant efficiency towards Carlton within the Swans’ final follow match was an indication of issues to come back, he stated.
“We definitely saw how much Errol Gulden has improved from last year, but I think he’s going to take the next step,” he stated.
“Logan McDonald is also set for a huge year; he’s had a super off season, so I don’t think there’s any doubt he will take it to another level, too.”
Two different promising Swans forwards, Hayden McLean and Joel Amartey, have been pressured to bide their time whereas Franklin stays one of many competitors’s premier forwards, however Heeney stated the pair was studying in spades from the champion.
“Not everyone can move and be as strong as him, but just those little tricks of the trade are really important,” Heeney stated.
“Even if it’s only a couple of things here and there, picking his brain is so helpful for those guys.”
Source: www.news.com.au
