Carlton head of footy Greg ‘Diesel’ Williams has commented on a number of standouts and players coming into big years in 2022 that featured in the Blues’ Friday intra-club.
The AFL season kicks off in less than a month and has often happened, there’s no shortage of hype around Carlton coming into a new season.
A new coach, numerous stars fully fit and flying and some trade acquisitions have built up fans’ hopes, and Williams did nothing to hose away the hype when talking to Sportsday on Friday night.
He praised a number of midfielders, including skipper Patrick Cripps, while also suggesting draftee Jesse Motlop showed plenty.
Motlop was drafted with pick 27 in the 2021 AFL National Draft, with every suggestion he could now be picked early in the season.
Williams also said youngsters Paddy Dow and Lochie O’Brien will both have a big role to play this year.
Read Williams' thoughts below.
Patrick Cripps
“He looked sharp today, he did.
“He’s moving well, he’s in good shape, his pre-season has been super.”
Adam Cerra
“I’m being positive, but he was unreal as well today.
“He’s a pretty good player already, he’s class, he really is.
“I think Carlton supporters will be very happy with Cerra, put it that way.”
George Hewett
“He’s just that strong inside midfielder that we need to help Cripps.
“He’s looking good too, he’s just a great bloke to have in your team.”
Charlie Curnow
“He’ll play up forward, his pre-season, they’ve timed his run to the start of the season.
“He’s been doing 100 per cent for at least six weeks or a few months probably.
“He’s said himself he’s in the best shape he’s ever been in, his knee feels great, touch wood, and I think it would be great for everyone if Charlie can get back to close to what he was.
“I think he can, some of the stuff he’s done in training and match simulation, he’s moving as well as he ever has I think.
“Let’s hope he can continue on and get some form.”
Jesse Motlop
“There is (a chance for an early-season debut).
“He kicked a couple (of goals) today, he’s a classy little player. He’s talented, he really is, and he’s just fitted into the club.
“The first session he came and trained with the boys he just fitted in, didn’t make a mistake, he’s just a classy little goal sneak.”
Paddy Dow and Lochie O’Brien
“They both played well.
“O’Brien’s one of the best runners we got at the club, he’s on the wing and he’s in probably the best form he’s been in for a long time.
“They’re all in good form, they’ve all had great pre-seasons, but I really think ‘Dowy’ and him have really stepped it up and they’re going to be part of the team, no doubt about it.”