Lyons on radar of M1 rivals

GOLD Coast have cut proven midfielder Jarryd Lyons as the fallout from their AFL squad overhaul continues.

Lyons joins a long list of departing familiar faces including Tom Lynch, Steven May, Aaron Hall and Kade Kolodjashnij, while Jesse Lonergan’s exit was also confirmed on Tuesday.

The 26-year-old Lyons played 37 games for the Suns after joining from Adelaide in 2017 and regularly chalked up big numbers.

He averaged almost 25 disposals a game this year but fell back in the pecking order and Suns list and strategy manager Craig Cameron said that slide was only going to steepen given their movements in the player market.

Thus, Lyons will finish his contract a year early and is reportedly set to head up the M1 to the Brisbane Lions.

In return, the Suns will be positioned to sign more delisted free agents before the November 16 deadline.

“We added real depth to our midfield during the trade period and as a result Jarryd understands his opportunities would be increasingly limited due to the additions of these players and our desire to play and develop the young midfield talent already on our list,” Cameron said.

“The club and Jarryd have had a mature discussion and agree that another club may offer him greater opportunity to play in the midfield.

“We thank Jarryd for his contribution to the club and wish him all the best as he continues his AFL career.”

Defender Jack Leslie has also been delisted but will be picked up by Gold Coast in the rookie draft.