North Melbourne plans to unleash a brand new key ahead pairing on the competitors in 2023, with new co-captain Luke McDonald buoyant about his facet’s prospects.
McDonald stated the Kangaroos’ 2019 second spherical choice, Charlie Comben, is ready for a breakout yr after “finally getting some luck with his body”.
The 21-year-old tall was stricken by stress fractures in his again and leg in 2020 and 2021, whereas different points – together with a knee downside – restricted him to 9 VFL video games final season.
Comben impressed with 19 targets in these appearances and broke again into the facet for his second senior recreation in Round 23.
McDonald stated an uninterrupted pre-season had Comben poised to kind a robust partnership with younger star Nick Larkey.
“He’s been in the system for a few years now; he’s finally getting some luck with his body,” McDonald stated.
“If we can get him into the side and developing a really strong rapport with Nick Larkey, it will take a lot of pressure off (Larkey) and Cam Zurhaar.”
Speaking from the Kangaroos’ group camp in Rochester, Larkey additionally praised the pre-season performances of his 199cm potential ahead associate.
“It’s been a really good pre-season, but particularly up forward has been good … Charlie Comben and Callum Coleman-Jones have been really good in the air for us down there,” Larkey stated.
McDonald and Larkey spoke glowingly of number-three decide Harry Sheezel’s early impressions on the membership, whereas McDonald stated he additionally hoped to see spring-heeled defender Josh Goater have an effect at AFL stage early this season.
“He debuted in the last game last year and he’s come on in leaps and bounds this pre-season; he’s certainly one that comes to mind,” McDonald stated.
A lifelong North Melbourne supporter, McDonald stated he was honoured to have begun his new function as co-captain alongside Jy Simpkin and that the optimistic the younger facet was prepared to enhance on the sector.
“It’s something I’m really, really proud of and I can’t wait to go into the games,” he stated.
“It’s always an ambition when you first get to the club … the number-one thing I had to get right was getting my footy in order and playing some consistent football.
“There’s certainly no cap on what we can achieve … clearly we’re learning a new game plan, so I’m not going to be putting a number on how we’re going to go, but I’m certainly really excited.”
Source: www.news.com.au
