P-man

Any chance of a mature response rather than being a smarmy git? If anything, this exercise shows how we are lacking for leaders. Viney is almost a given in a few years, but right now outside of the top 4 or 5 there are no obvious candidates. I'm a big believer in second chances and it could be a great way for him to finish his career with an expression of faith from the playing group and coaches. People are suggesting Rodan and no-one bats an eyelid. At this stage in their careers I fail to see alot of difference between the two except Davey knows the club inside out and is still a respected figure, though obviously not by all the supporters. He's had a bad trot with injuries, and whilst the engine isn't what it used to be, I still believe he has alot to contribute as a senior player at this club. It's obviously unlikely as he may not even nominate himself, but I'd be happy to see him given the title of leader once more. I couldn't care less if I'm the only one who feels that way.

*You're No, I appreciate it's left field and might attract a few dead head responses such as yours.

Out: Garland In: Davey - most will disagree, perhaps even on the merits that he may not be best 22, but whilst fitness and form have waned he is still very much a leader at the club. I think a recall would do him and the youngsters coming through a lot of good. Possible Out: Jamar Possible In: Watts - has leadership potential and this is likely to be the year he becomes fully grounded as an AFL footballer.

BAM! Cop that he says!

I'm all in favour of having someone with his obvious credentials on our side, but it's worth reiterating the dangers of biting the hand that feeds you. We take the AFL to court and this thing turns into a whole new type of cluster f***. The club needs to carefully weigh up the decision and any penalties before beginning to consider legal steps. Fortunately I think this may be moot. I'm getting the sense the AFL's case is increasingly starting to resemble a block of swiss cheese. Having investigators that allegedly threaten witnesses if they don't talk is the last thing they needed.

Fellow Deelanders - please advise me as to which god, or gods, to which I must pay homage in order for this bloke to provide a consistent 2013 in which his performance matches his talent. I'm open to all options. What are we thinking with Col now and into the future? Were there enough signs the last two years that he is building towards something? Must the team perform well in order for him to do the same, or will he finally take the bull by the horns under Neeld's regime? Perhaps even assume more leadership responsibilities on the field? Just please, for the love of all things good and holy, let the most talented player in the team start showing it in 2013. Right from the get go.

Actually referred to him as "Pendo" in his presser.

I'll tell you one thing, if we make the finals before Richmond do....I would very much enjoy that.

Look at it this way. You'll have a quality bump on your hands if by some divine miracle we do make finals next year.

The second one.

Blood doesn't seem to bother him. In fact he seems to welcome it. Signs point to yes, we have an undead creature on our list.

EFA

I hate having to defend Sheeds, but arrogance tends to be a pretty important trait in a successful AFL coach.

I can't understand why ADC hasn't been banned. The sole aim to aggravate is so obvious.

It's quite amazing how football can make you feel intense hatred towards people you've never met.

That article reads like a post on bigfooty from an opposition supporter. Absolutely appalling.

I agree with the consensus that it is anything but a white flag and is primarily a strong statement looking to see that the investigation is conducted in a legal and fair manner. The only wording that bothers me a little is this: “The board is also concerned to ensure there is minimal impact on our current football department and playing group. Since the significant restructure by the board of our football department in 2011..." Going at lengths to distance yourself from the previous FD is not a great look, considering the allegations at hand.

Agree with Ron. This post actually gave me some hope, which at the moment is no small feat.

Prior to the broken leg, I saw glimpses of Strauss that made me think he could be a very good player indeed.

He needs to get over the fact he didn't get the job, seriously.

I would assume so, though I'm not claiming to know what the flow-on effects would be.

How would members feel if the punishment was stripping of the pick traded to Collingwood, i.e. Pick 20? Heard a rumour of that, [censored] source, but it got me thinking. Given the extent of reported evidence (albeit testimonial), and the knowledge that the AFL will need to be seen to act on this, I'd be tempted to cop that punishment and run. Escaping with Viney, Hogan and Pick 4 would be a win.

Having the big fella play for the Scorps paid off..

React by throwing all support by the club as others have suggested. You get through messes like this by sticking tight. Boycotting games whether they be home or away will achieve nothing other than punishing the players. You really think Vlad will be sitting in AFL House and taking any note of Melbourne's crowd attendance changing from sweet bugger all to bugger all?

Noticed Watts smiling in that footage. Not impressed. I want to see nothing but glum faces during training.