ZAC Smith is firming for a return to the Geelong team with the forgotten big man to travel to Sydney for Sunday’s clash with the Swans.
Smith, who has played just four AFL games since the start of 2018 after 21 in the Cats’ run to the preliminary final the previous season, and just one this year, didn’t play in the VFL’s win over Casey Demons last week.
And with the Cats’ having the bye at state league level this week, it is unlikely a player challenging for an AFL berth would miss a fortnight of football.
“The case you’ve made outlines our thinking pretty well,” coach Chris Scott said in response to a question which posed that scenario.
“We haven’t decided exactly whether he’ll play or not, but he’ll be in the 23 or 24-man squad.”
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Working in Smith’s favour is his impact during his appearance against the Swans in Round 11.
That night at GMHBA Stadium, Smith had 33 hitouts to help Geelong dominate the clearances 44-31.
“He played well, and the stoppage numbers were good as well,” Scott said.
“I’m an advocate for not going back too far and looking at what teams have done, but their (Sydney’s) brand has been built around contest and stoppage work, and that was one of the best stoppage games we’ve had for the year; big score from stoppage numbers.
“I think it’s unfair, again, to say it was because of one player, but it doesn’t hurt Zac that he was playing in the ruck that day.”
Scott also confirmed Scott Selwood and Quinton Narkle would be part of the 26-man squad announced later today, while Sam Menegola will travel to Sydney.
However, his AFL return from a knee injury is likely to be against Fremantle at Optus Stadium in Round 20.
“There’s some consideration for this week, but more likely next week, at this stage,” Scott said.
Twitter: @tom_king79
Email: kingy@geelongbroadcasters.com
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