Suns Trade: Bombers Raid Incoming?

Gold Coast’s Bailey Humphrey: A Potential Trade Catalyst?

The AFL landscape is abuzz with speculation, and a key focus is the Gold Coast Suns and their pursuit of retaining young talent. Bailey Humphrey, a highly-touted player, is facing significant interest from Victorian clubs, prompting discussions about potential trade scenarios that could ripple through multiple teams.

The Suns are reportedly determined to keep Humphrey on their books. However, the prospect of trading him to a club like Hawthorn or Melbourne could, in turn, pave the way for the Gold Coast to pursue Essendon defender Jordan Ridley. The Herald Sun reports that both the Suns and Brisbane Lions have expressed interest in Ridley, a player who has battled injury concerns in recent years. Another Gold Coast player, Charlie Ballard, is also a name to watch as he navigates his position within Damien Hardwick’s side.

Former Bomber Ben Hobbs Sings James Hird’s Praises

In a significant endorsement for James Hird’s coaching aspirations, former Essendon player Ben Hobbs has spoken glowingly about the impact Hird had on his career. Hobbs, who struggled to establish himself at the Bombers after being drafted in 2021, found renewed confidence and enjoyment in football under Hird’s guidance at VFL club Port Melbourne.

Hobbs, who was delisted by Essendon at the end of last season, found himself at a low ebb. He told the Herald Sun that Hird, along with Brendan McCartney, “showed so much interest in how much I can still improve at a lower level.” Hobbs elaborated, “Hirdy just gave me so much self-belief and confidence, and I think connection is the most important thing for a coach to have nowadays. His connection skills and his belief in his players, that is the really big thing I have noticed. He connects with all the players at Port Melbourne.” This personal testimony highlights Hird’s ability to foster strong player relationships, a quality Hobbs believes is crucial for modern coaching.

Jack Gunston Poised for Hawks Extension

Hawthorn’s veteran forward Jack Gunston is reportedly in discussions to extend his contract with the club. With contract talks expected to intensify during the club’s Round 14 bye, Gunston’s current form is a significant factor. The 34-year-old is enjoying a career-best patch, having kicked 85 goals in his last 24 appearances, making a strong case for a contract extension. According to SEN, the spearhead forward is likely to earn a one-year deal.

Carlton’s Coaching Search Intensifies

The Blues are actively seeking a new senior coach following the departure of Michael Voss, and their search appears to be more advanced than that of Essendon and Tasmania. SEN reports that Carlton is keen to speak with a list of candidates that includes John Longmire, Daniel Giansiracusa, and Hayden Skipworth. Overseeing the crucial decision-making process will be a dedicated panel comprising chief executive Graham Wright, president Rob Priestley, football boss Chris Davies, and consultant Adam Simpson.

Darcy Moore’s US Sojourn for Injury Management

Collingwood captain Darcy Moore has travelled to the United States to address persistent soft-tissue issues. Moore has experienced four soft-tissue setbacks this year, with both calf and hamstring complaints plaguing his season. He is expected to miss the next month of football and will use his time in the US to focus on his problematic hamstring.

Nathan Buckley Keeps Coaching Options Open

Nathan Buckley has been a name frequently linked with coaching vacancies, particularly the one at Tasmania. However, the former Collingwood coach has indicated he is not ruling out any other opportunities that may arise across the competition. Speaking on Fox Footy’s On The Couch, Buckley, who is currently enjoying his role at Geelong, stated, “I’ve been very deliberate in getting back into coaching to prepare myself for a senior coaching opportunity.” He added, “I’ve made no secret of the fact of what I’m preparing for or what role I’d wish to be in. But I don’t have that role, so I’ll look at different options.”

Jonathan Brown Recounts Brain Tumour Scare

Brisbane premiership player Jonathan Brown has shared his experience of having a brain tumour following a recent return to television screens. Brown recounted how his wife’s persistence led him to get a head scan, which ultimately revealed the tumour. “I guess there’s probably always that doubt when you read all the headlines about head knocks over the journey,” Brown said on Fox Footy’s On The Couch. “Anyway, I finally gave in to Kyles and I got a head scan. Obviously, the last thing I was expecting when I got the phone call that I had a brain tumour – but I had a brain tumour nonetheless.” He expressed gratitude to the surgeon, Gavin Davis, for successfully removing it, noting it wasn’t a serious tumour.

Matthew Lloyd Clarifies Stance on James Hird

Essendon legend Matthew Lloyd has sought to clarify his position regarding James Hird’s potential return to coach the Bombers. Lloyd, speaking on Channel 9’s Footy Classified, emphasised that he simply believes Hird should be part of the selection process. “I’m not pro James, I’m not against James. I just want James to be part of the process,” Lloyd stated. He also categorically denied claims of political involvement or having met with former Essendon chairman Paul Little, refuting statements made by Tom Morris and Kane Cornes.

Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly Reportedly Planning Exit

Speculation is mounting that Collingwood chief executive Craig Kelly is preparing to step down from his role, with a potential departure at the end of the current season. Kelly is in his fourth season at the Magpies, having taken over from Graham Wright. Media personality Garry Lyon suggested on SEN that Kelly’s long-term ambition might be to pursue the club’s presidency. “100%, I’m telling you. He never looked upon it as a massive career as the CEO of the Collingwood Football Club,” Lyon commented. “In fact, if I had to have a bet, I think his great wish would be to end up being President of the Collingwood Football Club… I think he’d like to oversee it, and he’d like to oversee it from the President’s position.”

Player Movement Buzz: Walter, Merrett, and Sidebottom

The AFL player movement rumour mill is in overdrive. According to reports on SEN, Collingwood could be in prime position to secure the services of Gold Coast’s highly-rated young player, Jed Walter. Elsewhere, Zach Merrett is understood to be keen on a move to Hawthorn, while veteran Steele Sidebottom has been tipped to continue his playing career into 2027.