Dees plot danger zone up forward

MELBOURNE’S plan to play Tom McDonald as a permanent forward next year could see it assemble one of the league’s most dangerous forward lines.

The Demons believe the recruitment of Jake Lever gives them the chance to release McDonald to play alongside spearhead Jesse Hogan.

McDonald was played forward in desperation last year after injuries to Hogan and Jack Watts and kicked 23 goals in only limited time forward.

The hope is that Hogan and McDonald can combine seamlessly in a forward line that includes crumbers Jeff Garlett and Christian Petracca.

The 25-year-old defender starred against West Coast with five goals and a freak matchwinner while being tackled to the ground.

Melbourne chief executive Peter Jackson said this week the plan was to release McDonald forward.

Champion Data statistics showed McDonald played more than 40 per cent forward in 10 games this year.

He averaged 16 possessions, 1.9 goals and 5.7 score involvements while also pinch-hitting in the ruck.

The Demons have just signed Max Gawn until 2021.

Jackson believes the Demons will create a player culture and platform of success that will help them retain their stars.

Melbourne had salary cap room to retain Jack Watts next year, which will give them a head start in securing McDonald and a list of uncontracted stars.

“They will all be priorities at the end of the day but our long-term list strategy says we can make it work and the other important thing is building a strong team that stays together,’’ Jackson said.