Geelong vice-captain Patrick Dangerfield has praised second-year midfielder Tim Kelly for his attitude after his trade request last year didn’t get through.
Kelly wished to be traded home to West Australia – specifically West Coast – but a deal couldn’t be reached between the Eagles and Cats.
He returned to Geelong for the 2019 season and Dangerfield understands the difficult situation he’s found himself in.
“It’s very much too early to call in terms of his own personal circumstances, he’s obviously got three kids and having one myself with great family support around me living in the area I grew up, it’s still difficult enough,” Dangerfield told SEN’s Time On.
“Let alone for Tim moving his entire family across the country and dealing with being a second-year player in this system so we’ll support him as much as we can.
“He still has to make that decision at some stage throughout the year, but we’re looking forward to him playing good footy at the Cats.
“I’m sure Tim would’ve been disappointed at the end of last season, but in terms of the way he’s prepared himself he’s been outstanding which speaks to his character that’s for sure.
“We certainly understand the reasons for him requesting a trade home at the end of last season.
“We’re not going to pretend like that didn’t happen, you’ve got to understand the reasons why and we certainly do and we’re going to support Tim as much as we possibly can.”
Dangerfield is confident the 24-year-old will improve on the back of his excellent first season.
“If his game on the weekend is anything to go by, he’s going to take it to another level this year,” he said.
“In terms of his playing ability, we’re really excited with what he’s going to bring to us.
“It’s quite incredible for a second-year player to be doing what he’s done.”
Kelly played 23 games last year, averaging 22.9 disposals, four clearances and four inside 50s.
