Betts fairytale ‘may not work’

CARLTON’S decision to reunite with Eddie Betts goes completely against the club’s list build, according to Mick McGuane.

The former Collingwood premiership player said he hoped the Blues had not been blinded by the romanticism of Betts returning or coach David Teague’s close relationship with him from their time at Adelaide.

Betts, who is about to turn 33, is desperate to continue his AFL career where it started, and will be traded from the Crows for little more than a late pick.

Adelaide is also likely to pay a significant portion of Betts’ contract, which means it won’t cost Carlton much.

But McGuane said he was concerned Betts’ recruitment could hinder the in- game development of a younger Blue who might be squeezed out as a result.

“There is a bit of a fairytale about Betts coming home to the Blues, but I think it goes against their whole philosophy,” McGuane said.

“He will be 33 next month. Due to his age, I think he played too comfortable and not at the intensity required [for Adelaide] this season.

“He’s been a very good player, but on this year’s form, his best looks to be past him.”

He suggested Teague would have played a significant role in chasing Betts, who has kicked 600 goals from his 316 games. He played 184 for the Blues between 2005 and 2013, before playing a further 132 with the Crows.

“This looks like a coach’s decision to me, rather than a list management decision,” McGuane said.

“We know Blues coach David Teague’s relationship with Betts goes back to their time together at Adelaide.

“If my assumption is right, at some stage, Teague might have to swallow his pride and acknowledge the decision might not be good for the medium to long term.

“It might just hinder the development of a younger player who is kept out of the side.”