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DEDICATED, LOYAL AND TRUE

Nathan Jones is becoming the midfield’s elder statesmen but has not lost his hardness or ability to win the ball in contested situations. During 2018, Jones became the eighth player to play 250 games for Melbourne and will long be remembered for his dedication and loyalty.

Date of Birth: January 20, 1988

Height: 180cm

Weight: 87kg

Games MFC 2018: 25

Career Total: 264

Goals MFC 2018: 15

Career Total: 130

Votes 2018 Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Memorial Trophy: 449 votes (4th)

 

How many games will Jonesy play next year and in what position?

Nathan Jones has been stoic, and been the light for such a long time.  

For the last two years, I have seen him needing to play a different role (other than inside mid), and that has not helped him maintain his high standard.  My main concern with him is his kicking efficiency for 40+ metre kicks.  As he has been playing wing a fair bit, the long kick into the forward 50 is an incredibly important component of the arsenal.

His short passes are very good, sometimes elite, and sometimes regretful...

He has been an exceptional leader and great team mate.  His work in media representing the club has been wonderful to see and hear.  So to me the questions that remain:

  • How long does he keep the co-captaincy? and how long does he want to?
  • What is the best role for him? Wing, high half forward, midfield depth, or defence?

He was probably carrying an injury towards the end of the season, as he didn't have the same impact I was expecting.

His leadership on the field is only known by the coaching group and players, but Viney has surpassed him as an impact player/leader from an outsider's viewpoint.

I truly hope that he has relevance and is impactful when we finally get the chance to win a grand final.

 

Another good year by the heart and soul of the club, would like to see him take over Lewis's role.

I really like Viney on field, but for me Jones is the most credible voice for the club. He has been an absolute stalwart and still plays a critical role on field. I know he can't play forever but the way his last few years are managed will be the mark of the club we have become.


4th in BnF - the FD still rate him highly.  He has never been elite but is renowned for his hardness, durability and loyalty.

Has been relegated out of the starting midfield by elite talent.  But he's #1 to step back in if injuries hit.

Too good not to be in the 22 even if he has to play a role that doesn't suit him.

Legacy will be very similar to David Neitz and will give the games record a shake. Hopefully he goes one better with a flag.

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