Paul Connors has dismissed suggestions that Essendon have emerged as a strong contender in the race to sign GWS star midfielder Josh Kelly.
Mark Robinson’s back page article in today’s Herald Sun says that a source close to Kelly has suggested that Essendon are “in the mix” to secure the 22-year-old’s services.
However his manager says that Robinson’s story may be a bit of wishful thinking.
“Robbo wrote the article and he loves his Bombers. He’s probably wishing that would happen, isn’t he?” Connors told SEN Breakfast.
While Connors has confirmed that that multiple clubs have enquired about his star client, he says Kelly is only focused on Giants’ upcoming finals campaign as the club seeks its first ever AFL premiership.
“I think you’d be mad not to be interested in Josh, but he is just focused on the finals and so he should,” he said.
The player manager commended Kelly on his stunning 2017 season despite the constant speculation surrounding his future, placing particular praise on Kelly’s 43 disposal, eight clearance performance against West Coast over the weekend.
“He’s only young, he’s in his fourth year and his football since these talks started has only gone from good to great,” he said.
“You’d have to be extremely proud of him if you’re Leon Cameron about the way he has handled himself and the way he has conducted his footy. Even last weekend his footy went to another level.”
Connors believes that no matter Kelly’s choice when he decides on his future later this year, his decision will be respected despite the big money that would be involved in any move away from the club.
If Kelly were to stay a Giant, the player manager says his loyalty to his current club will be commended – a factor in football he believes is still alive and well.
“If Josh Kelly stays with GWS, I think his legacy forever in football will be secure as one of the most loyal premiership driven players in the game,” he said.
“If not, he is coming home for family reasons and we’ll all respect that.
“I think the loyalty from players to clubs is still extremely high and our game is still such a great game. I think the loyalty of players is second to none… I’m surprised at players’ loyalty to their friends first and foremost and the game.
“We’ve seen in recently in spades at Essendon... I applaud it.”