Motlop, Menzel key forward components
GEELONG should not part ways with Dan Menzel or Stephen Motlop in order to make space for Gary Ablett, according to star midfielder Mitch Duncan.
Menzel and Motlop remain out of contract going into the finals, with a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the small forwards.
Duncan said the two livewires were vital pieces in the Geelong puzzle.
“I think they’re great people to have around the footy club; they have a lot of x-factor and can win games off their own boot,” he said.
“They’re pretty important parts to our team. Hopefully they’re in for a big September.”
While the Cats are open to an Ablett homecoming, Duncan said the club should not move heaven and earth to fit him in next year.
“I haven’t been asked the question, but we’ll leave that to Stephen Wells, Steve Hocking and the list management side of things,” he said.
“If he can get to the footy club, that’s great, if he can’t then we move on. That’s just the way I see it.”
Zach Tuohy is one player who has fitted in seamlessly.
Duncan said he thought the former Blue was unlucky to miss the All-Australian squad of 40.
“He’s been a key cog for us,” he said.
“He's really helped the way we play and has shut-out some of the small forwards in the game and continually provided that attacking option for us.
“I thought he was (unlucky), but in saying that, I don’t know who you kick out really.”
However, Duncan downplayed his own omission from the squad.
“I definitely didn’t set out for that and I suppose they’re the accolades you get from having a consistent season,” he said. “I’m pretty humbled to even be spoken about in that kind of manner.
“I’d rather finish second and go on and play finals, rather than finish bottom and make an All-Australian side. I’m just happy to be playing finals and have a shot at a premiership.”