With several superstars back for the AFL finals, John Longmire may get a big call.
With several players expected to return in the upcoming weeks, Leigh Montagna has questioned if Taylor Adams will be back in the Swans lineup for the AFL finals. After defeating Essendon by 39 points in Melbourne last Friday, the Swans made significant progress toward securing the minor premiership.
And the Swans have found their form again, which has propelled them to the top of the ladder for the bulk of the season, following a dismal run a few weeks ago. Luke Parker’s comeback to form while serving as John Longmire’s forward-midfielder has coincided with this. Parker led the Swans with his ball handling skills on Friday night, making an even greater impression.
According to Leigh Montagna, John Longmire (shown left) must make a critical decision on Taylor Adams’ (pictured) status as a starter for the Swans in the AFL finals. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)
In the meantime, Adams was benched on Friday night, and concerns were expressed about his performance given the absence of several important players. Adams’ hamstring injury prevented him from playing in Collingwood’s heartbreaking AFL grand final victory over the Lions last year.
The legendary AFL player Montagna also thinks that with several superstars returning to lead the Swans to the championship, Adams might have to make room in the middle this season. Leigh Montagna, a former player for St Kilda, stated on Fox Sports’ First Crack that “I think there is a big decision coming.” Luke Parker has performed admirably in his role as a forward-midfielder.
“A narrative is developing here, leading up to the championship, as we are aware that Justin McInerney, Tom Papley, and Chad Warner will all be returning. There are three walk-up starts available for just two seats; you (may) be able to attend for Caiden Cleary and Corey Warner.
“One more player will be left off the squad for the opening match, and it appears to be Taylor Adams, who traveled to Sydney to compete in the finals. Although he was hurt by what transpired at Collingwood, he was substituted out of the Essendon match with 14 disposals and only two score involvements, following a week of 10 disposals and two score involvements at Collingwood.
Prior to the AFL finals, there have been doubts about the form of Taylor Adams (pictured).
“It’s going to be a difficult decision, but I believe Taylor Adams will be the story to lose out if those three boys are healthy going into the first final with the team and balance they have.” Right now, Adam is putting down the lowest figures of his incredible career. The former star player for Collingwood is averaging 17.2 disposals, the fewest in his 13 AFL seasons. In addition, he is averaging 2.6 clearances and 2.6 inside-50s.
Wait on the Sydney Swans selection drama.
Although he acknowledged that Longmire might make a selection call, two-time premiership winner David King does not think it will happen next week. King stated that the Swans should have a new squad for the opening week of the playoffs and asserted that Longmire should not take any chances with his players.
“I understand it’s a negative impression, and I realize it’s not the ideal setup heading into a championship game, but I won’t be losing one (significant player),” King continued. “On Friday (before the game), I’m leading them in their hardest running session ever, but I won’t risk losing Warner, Isaac Heeney, Errol Gulden, Brodie Grundy, or any other key player to a contact injury in a finals series.
The Swans, two points ahead of Port Adelaide and with a superior percentage, have done just about enough to win the minor premiership. While the Swans play the Crows at home, Port Adelaide will play a Fremantle team that is keen to win so they can go to the playoffs.
When the Swans play in the finals, does Taylor Adams stay on the team?
It’s barely getting touched and still unable to reach a target with foot power.
He may not be in their best sid, in my opinion.
The Swans’ forward line appears slow and undersized at the same time. When the playoffs roll around, don’t imagine Adams and Parker will be on the same team.
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