Saad, his family and cultural situation meant he wanted to come back to Melbourne. Essendon, footy wise, are an excellent fit for him. Plus with Orazio, and McKenna he has brothers in speed crime he has others to play off against and push himself.
Smith, wanted to play midfield, and we gave him that chance. And he has embraced the opportunity 100%. Plus with his knees we have the spongy floors.
Stringer, is the interesting one. Given the baggage he brought with him it could have been a disaster. So far it has been quite the opposite with him fitting in well – excellent rapport with Smith. The fasting with Saad is a massive tick to him both as a footballer but also personally. And on the field he has his role to be THE MAN and he has embraced playing that role. Whatever the club have done to manage Jake then well done. If he has success both on and off the field from his time at Essendon then it’ll be a fruitful and positive trade for player and club and the fans.
Agreed. He was getting coaches votes (including from the opposition coach) when blitz was ■■■■■■■ and moaning about him.
And he’s been excellent since the Geelong game
