No ifs or buts for reject

LINDSAY Thomas admits he’ll have to “work his backside off” to make Port Adelaide’s best 22 after they handed him an AFL lifeline.

The veteran goalsneak will look to revive his career in his home state of South Australia after being selected by Port in Monday’s rookie draft.

He has signed a one-year deal with the Power, who have made 11 changes to their list during the off-season including the addition of big-name recruits Jack Watts, Tom Rockliff and Steven Motlop.

Thomas spent 11 seasons at North Melbourne, playing 205 games and booting 325 goals to sit 11th on their all-time goalkicking tally.

The 29-year-old fell out of favour with coach Brad Scott this year, managing just nine games for the rebuilding side.

“I’ve been in the game long enough. I’m under no illusions that I’m just going to come here and walk into that best 22,” he said.

“The only way I’m going to crack into that team is I work my backside off on the track and get the respect of the players and the coaches.”