Garry Lyon says Essendon going after Ben Brown would only be a worthwhile pursuit if there’s adequate forward support around him.
North Melbourne confirmed their intention to shop Brown around to willing suitors as they embark on an aggressive rebuild of their list.
Asked by Tim Watson whether Brown would fit in at Essendon, Lyon explained it could only work if there’s another key target in the same forward line.
“If Joe Daniher went, (Brown) would have to assume that number one key role (at Essendon),” Lyon said on SEN Breakfast.
“They haven’t got the complimentary players around him so I think if he’s going to be your sole forward, I wouldn’t be jumping at it.
“But if you’ve a got complimentary tall who is a contested mark and can do that tough and heavy grunt work you need ... (Brown’s) ability to hit up at the footy and kick goals is undisputed.
“If that’s the only part, which I guess is why North Melbourne has arrived at the decision (to let him explore other options), but if you’ve got complimentary types then (it may work out).
As Brown’s management looks at his future options, Lyon said his former club Melbourne wouldn’t suit purely because of their disposal efficiency by foot.
“I don’t think the ball use of Melbourne would be complimentary to his game,” he said
“Their use of the footy, whilst it got better (during the season), I’m not sure it would absolutely to Ben’s liking.”