Collingwood great Mick McGuane says Magpies recruit Dayne Beams must be prepared to fulfil his defensive duties in order to successfully integrate into Nathan Buckley’s game plan.
Beams, 28, secured a trade back to the Pies after leaving the club for Brisbane at the end of the 2014 season, in what was one of the biggest coups of the trade period.
McGuane has encouraged the star midfielder to bring an “open mind” in order to make a smooth transition.
“Without question he’s got some work to defensively and I think he would recognise that as much as the competition does as well,” McGuane told SEN Mornings.
“From an outsider looking in, not knowing him, he seems to be a really complex character, a deep character who’s probably got a close tent attitude, if you’re not in his circle it’s hard to get in it.
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“He’s got to bring an open mind to the team, because that team was sensational the way they connected and had good synergy for and with each other this year, hence that’s why they got to a Grand Final berth.
“If he thinks he can supersede that mentality without doing the hard yards to connect with others, he might be in for a rude shock. I think that’s the challenge for Dayne.”
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The ability to kick goals from midfield will provide an added dimension to Collingwood’s star-studded midfield, according to McGuane.
“He’s one of the best midfielders in the competition when he’s healthy and he certainly provides another element that Collingwood haven’t got – a midfield goal kicker," McGuane added.
“He’s in the elite bracket in the competition when it comes to kicking an average of one goal a game. That’s clearly what the Pies need in terms of finishing their high volume game.”
Listen to Mick McGuane’s chat on SEN Mornings with Brett Phillips in the player below