Blues give Martin his wish at pre-season draft
AFL: Jack Martin became a Carlton player at last yesterday when the Blues landed the former Gold Coast Suns midfielder with the first pick at the AFL pre-season draft.
The Suns had threatened to use their first pick to keep the out-of-contract 24-year-old against his wishes, but conceded defeat on Thursday night when they gave up that selection by filling their list quota at the national draft.
The move ended a turbulent period for Martin, who informed the Suns of his desire to leave after 97 games but was unable to find his way to Princes Park in the trade period.
Blues list boss Stephen Silvagni knocked back a trade with the Suns, also involving a swap of first-round picks, safe in the knowledge he would most likely secure Martin without giving up any draft picks at the pre-season draft.
“We are really happy to welcome Jack ... he has tremendous talent but more importantly a determination to make the most of that talent and be part of a successful side here at Carlton,” Silvagni said.
“He will strengthen our forward line and also has the ability to play through the midfield and down back which will be a real asset for us.”
Adding the talented but injury-prone forward-midfielder is set to be Silvagni’s going away gift to the Blues, who are reported to be on the verge of parting ways with the respected list manager and club great.
Hawthorn was the only other club to participate in the pre-season draft, securing former Essendon defender Michael Hartley.
The Suns used the first pick at the rookie draft to welcome back Josh Schoenfeld, who they delisted last month.
Just 14 players new to the AFL system were added to club lists at the rookie selection meeting.