McQueen

Fair enough. I made those comments without doing the research on this season. Still I do not think he is worth 4 considering someone le Wines would step straight into the team and have a similar influence to what Rich had in his first season at the Lions.

They will be on the same playing field as everyone else from next year onwards. In reply to the OP, It's all about having the right environment that fosters the type of behaviours which in turn creates a culture of success. Identifying the individuals at trade and draft time that are the most susceptible to this on top of their footy smarts and skills is where the really good recruiters leave their mark IMO. Developing players is key to effective drafting. It's really as simple as that; having a great FD in place, the facilities at hand, the vision etc will get the most out of your drafted players. Saying all that, you will still get quite a few that will not make it. Cook seems to be the first to come to mind but I would still like to be wrong in his situation.

WTF? His best year was his first when he won the Rising Star. Ever since then he has been serviceable and reliable but no way is he a pick 4 trade. Pick 20 more like it.

What deal needs to be done on an RFA? If Port want Moloney they take him. We've already expressed our desire not to keep him. Compensation will be from the ND, not from Port. Ed: At least that's how I understand it.

After reading more about him, watching his interviews and learning of his award with the Cats I've changed my position on Byrnes. I think he'll bring a lot to our young side. Hope he kicks plenty of goals as well.

Neeld has repeatedly said that Jack Watts is a 21 year old 50 game player who has great skills. For Neeld not to try and work with him on contested ball and Misson do his job and bulk Watts up after only one season under them would be an absolute crying shame. If Watts is still in the same mould this time next year then I will start to raise my eyebrows.

Nasher, I'm expressing an opinion that I don't think Byrnes is all that every other poster seems to think he's cracked up to be. I also stated that I wish him the best. Deleted post referencing Casey.

Sad that Brent has not had the brains or motivation to avoid this situation.

Negative tossers just took it a little too far, champ.

As you've pointed out with this comment above. He's nothing special. But hey, let me state right now that I do wish him all the best. He will bring experience and will add value in some way.

Average player who might add some value with regards to attitude and leadership. Not over the moon about this appointment. Hope he still has some good years and form in him,

This explains it very well. Thanks.

I'm really hoping Rory Taggert comes along next year. While Wellingham could play a role for us and add some experience, I'd like to think Taggert will be developed. Harder body and all.

Effectively we have here Tom Scully for Wellingham, Dawes and pick 13. When I look at it that way it's not too bad...

Terry Wallace "It would be the greatest injustice if Melbourne were forced to use pick 3 on Viney." Said GWS have already screwed us with TS. Pretty certain he will go thru 2nd round.

Barrett tried putting words in his mouth about Dawes great relationship with Neeld. Manager countered with his relationship with Scott Watters is great too - played a straight bat.

Dawes' manager discussing on trade week radio now. http://www.afl.com.au/portals/0/2010/offseason/trw/twr2012.html

Obviously another player the club failed to develop properly.

Both of these players have fought for spots during their times at the mentioned clubs. Being an emergency for a Granny still suggests you're outside the best 22 just as he was at the MFC. We let both these blokes go because they couldn't make the grade. Now Hawthorn and Collingwood are following suit but you're saying they've been developed better by these clubs? I think it was good of them to try.

I get the feeling that any argument will not change your mind about Dawes so I won't pursue one. Have a nice day.

We need a plug and play big forward and Dawes seems to be the only one left. He will play a role and demand a very good opposition defender. No doubt he's looked average this season but so did Cloke for a large majority.

Refer to my post again.

Surely Leigh Brown can come out of retirement?

All smoke and mirrors. Part of the charade I would think (hope).

I will lose my shite if we pass on Viney. If the club cannot bargain with GC and GWS to avoid this, given the talent on offer this year, then it will be very disappointing.