Bob Murphy and Andy Maher have selected two defenders who they believe are ready to go to another level in 2021.
Murphy predicts big things from Port Adelaide recruit Aliir Aliir, while Maher is bullish on Gold Coast defender Sam Collins.
“We’re going to pick a player who we think by the end of the year is going to have elevated themselves comfortably into a higher category,” Maher told SEN’s Bob and Andy.
“They’re our players on the runway ready to take their footy to another level.”
Bob Murphy (Aliir Aliir)
“I’ve been an Aliir Aliir fan for quite a while and could never quite work out why it wasn’t working out the way I thought it should have in Sydney.
“Gets a trade to Port Adelaide and I just see it as the absolute perfect fit for him.
“They have an experienced backline already there, they’re a side clearly in their prime about to contend.
“I think this year he could push for the All-Australian squad of 40. That’s the kind of year Aliir Aliir could have.”
Sam Collins (Andy Maher)
“Sam Collins is coming into his fifth year, had a couple of years at Fremantle and two outstanding years at Gold Coast.
“He will be the beneficiary of a side that’s maturing with a deeper and more talented midfield.
“He is an outstanding intercept defender – number two in the AFL last year for defenders. He was elite in key categories last year.
“Now that he’s going to be in a team that’s going to be a bit stronger around the footy, I can see this kid being a bit more aggressive in his starting position.
"By the end of the year, I can see Sam Collins being an elite defender in the competition in the minds of just about all of us – I wouldn’t be shocked at all if he’s in the (All-Australian) 40.”