Adelaide forward Tom Lynch admits it hurt to be told that his services won’t be required at West Lakes next year.
The Crows and Lynch will part ways at season’s end after the 30-year-old was informed by coach Matthew Nicks and football boss Adam Kelly that he won’t be offered a new contract.
“It was obviously disappointing and stung a lot when you get told they no longer would like you to play there,” Lynch told SEN SA Breakfast.
“That was hard to deal with.
“But at the same time, I asked for clarity and appreciated them giving me that when I asked.”
What factored into Adelaide’s decision to part company with Lynch?
“There wasn’t too much detail,” Lynch said.
“It was just around the fact that there wasn’t a spot on the list there next year.
“I think it was more around the direction they’re heading and the rebuild stage they’re in and sticking to that plan.
“It’s a bit of a shock when you get told, but that’s life.”
Lynch is focused on finishing strongly with the Crows before contemplating joining a third AFL club.
“I haven’t actually entertained or even thought about playing anywhere else,” he said.
“Based on the fact that I’m still playing, it doesn’t feel real just yet.
“We’ll see where that lands and what’s next.”
Lynch is back to full fitness after missing a large chunk of the season with a toe injury, collecting 29 disposals and kicking a goal in Adelaide’s loss to Melbourne on Sunday.
He’s played 163 AFL games with 157 of those coming at the Crows.