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 about to play two quarters in a VFL apply match this weekend, every 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 still 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 are there to assist him and assist all of your teammates.”
McDonald also revealed new coach Alastair Clarkson spoke to the playing group about his confrontation with a female journalist over her reporting on Thomas.
Clarkson said in a statement he had “nice remorse” in regards to the incident.
“He addressed that, however I really like how loyal he’s as a coach,” McDonald mentioned.
“Other than your teammates, the one you wish to have your again probably the most is the coach – and there is not any 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 during his time at Hawthorn yet to be resolved, but McDonald could not be happier with his new coach.
“It’s been superior. Clarko’s footy data speaks for itself so I simply really feel actually fortunate 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 understand the aggressive nature of him. He’s right here to win silverware so I’m actually excited in regards to the journey forward.”
McDonald is hopeful the club can rise up the ladder following consecutive wooden spoon seasons, tipping a handful of young Roos to make big strides in 2023.
“Will Phillips and Tom Powell have each labored actually exhausting, and have each come again in actually good situation … they’re two guys that may take one other step this yr.”
Number three draft pick Harry Sheezel also looks set to play an exciting role in his first AFL season.
“When you are available in as a excessive draft choose there’s at all times a little bit of chatter however he is completely lived as much as 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
