Patience key for Mitch

CARLTON caretaker coach David Teague has asked Blues fans to show patience towards underperforming AFL star Mitch McGovern.

McGovern has kicked just 17 goals from 12 games since joining Carlton from Adelaide this season and the highly-paid forward has come under criticism from Blues legend Mark Maclure.

Teague defended McGovern after Maclure questioned the 24-year-old’s work ethic. Teague backed McGovern to reach his potential.

“He’s been really good for us for periods of this year,” Teague said. “He’s probably not performing at the level that he would love to perform at but while he’s still playing a role for the team he’ll get a game.

“He has to continue to grow on his fitness and his chemistry with other guys around him.”