Former Melbourne captain Garry Lyon doesn’t mind that Richmond youngster Jack Higgins has been dropped despite a promising AFL debut last week.
The 19-year-old, who won hearts across the competition for an entertaining post-match interview after a two goals in the Tigers’ win over Hawthorn, has lost his place in the forward line to Josh Caddy, who returns from a one week suspension.
Lyon says that limiting Higgins’ first taste of AFL footy to only one game isn’t a bad thing.
“I don’t mind it,” he said on SEN Breakfast.
“Caddy and Prestia come back in, both premiership players and in their best 22. Jack Higgins gets a taste.
“He gets experience, a couple of snags, goes back to the VFL and works hard. He’ll get another chance.”
Teammate Shaun Grigg echoed Lyon’s thoughts.
“It was really good to see him get a taste. He’s really deserved his opportunity,” the Tigers midfielder said.
“He’s trained well all pre-season and he got an opportunity, kicked a couple of goals and played his role well.
“It’s just probably a bit unfortunate for him that we have got Josh Caddy and Dion (Prestia) coming back in. I’ve got no doubt he’ll take it well.
“His energy is infectious. For someone like me that has been around a bit, it’s fun turning up to work every day with blokes like him.”
Sam Lloyd was the fellow Tiger to be sent back to the VFL to make way for the returning premiership duo.
The reigning premiers take on Brisbane at the MCG tomorrow afternoon at 2:10 PM.
Listen to the best bits of today's SEN Breakfast with Garry Lyon and Tim Watson below: