Sydney CEO Tom Harley says star forward Lance Franklin has been an “overwhelming success” since arriving from Hawthorn in 2013.
Franklin, who joined the Swans in a blockbuster nine-year deal worth $10 million, has been injury-hit in recent years and is set to miss the majority of 2020 with a hamstring tear.
The 33-year-old is into the seventh season of his mega contract and Harley feels the eight-time All-Australian is still an “elite performer” that can offer plenty in his final two years.
“Firstly I absolutely do not subscribe to the commentary around Lance’s contribution and the contract,” Harley told SEN’s The Captain’s Run.
“He (Franklin) has been an overwhelming success for the footy club and we absolutely think that he’s got good footy ahead of him.
“Lance’s contribution, and as recently as Round 23 last year where he kicked four goals against the Saints, he is still an absolute elite performer.
“Clearly he’s out injured for the next little while but certainly not as concerned as what I’ve read a lot of people are with regards to the next few years.”
Franklin is 56 goals away from becoming just the sixth player in VFL/AFL history to kick 1000 goals.
The four-time Coleman Medallist has booted 364 goals in 118 matches for the Swans.