Get around Oliver for the Brownlow says Dees captain

Nathan Jones says that Clayton Oliver is the best youngster has seen play during his entire time at Melbourne, backing him to be in the mix for the Brownlow Medal this year.

Oliver has been one of best players for the Demons in 2017, with the promising youngster averaging 32 disposals, five marks and seven tackles a game so far this season.

Jones says that the inside midfielder, who has bolted into Brownlow consideration in recent weeks, could surprise the competition and break through to win the medal in only his second season of AFL football.

“I would if I could…If I was a betting man, I’d get around him,” the Dees co-captain said on SEN Breakfast.

“I don’t reckon I’ve ever seen a better young player, to be honest, in 11 or 12 years of playing.”

Jones says that Oliver’s change in attitude since being caught drink-driving last November has been the reason for his blistering start to the year.

“I reckon from that moment he really has matured and just taken control of his career,” he said.

“I saw a drastic change in his body shape and his commitment to his training and preparation. Obviously the start to the season he has had has been a significant reward for that and now he’s coupled that with being really driven and disciplined.

“We’re getting a really consistent player that’s just an absolute bull in the midfield.”

Tim Watson says Oliver, who currently sits in second place in the AFL Coaches Association award voting, is every chance to win the Brownlow this year.

“I’ve watched every game that he has played this year and there is a chance he would very much right now in the voting for the Brownlow based on his performances this year,” he said.

Jones also expects forward Jesse Hogan to play against Hawthorn on Sunday, after he missed the club’s win over Essendon last week after the tragic death of his father.

Jones says that Hogan has handled the devastating situation remarkably well, calling his presence at training a massive boost to the club.

“To Jesse’s credit, he’s handled it as well as you would expect in a situation like that,” the Melbourne skipper said. “It was awesome to see him back…he came back in the other day and just slotted back in.

“I think (returning to footy) will be the best thing for him, having gone through (his father’s death) and how old he is, living away from home, getting amongst the players and the club, it’s almost like a second family.

“I’m really confident that he’ll come out this week and give a really strong performance and we’ll continue to support him and get around him in what’s a difficult time for him.

“He was quite upbeat and it was awesome to see really. I think it gave the players a real lift to have him back around and just see him smiling again.”