Former Melbourne champion Garry Lyon doesn’t believe the Blues are where they need to be at this stage of their development.
Carlton sits winless and on the bottom of the ladder after three games and Lyon is disappointed with the way the club has devolved since their first quarter in the season opener against Richmond.
“Three weeks ago there was a greater optimism and 20 minutes into the first quarter of Round 1 the optimism got out of whack when they kicked five unanswered against the reigning premier,” Lyon told SEN's Whateley.
“I think the whole footy world said ‘see, the path they’ve plotted is clear now,’ and then it wasn’t and then it’s gotten worse and worse over the last two weeks.”
Despite turning over a large portion of their list every year under coach Brendon Bolton, Lyon still thinks a number of players shouldn’t be in their long-term planning.
“There are eight to 10 players in that side that they’d be hoping aren’t there (next year) and I’m not sure they’re going to be able to do that unless they do an extraordinary job at the trade or draft table,” Lyon said.
“They do appear to be a bit behind, but I’m supportive of what they’re trying to do.”
Carlton will look to get their first win of the season against North Melbourne in Tasmania on Saturday night.