Mitch McGovern’s resurgence in the backline has prompted calls that he’s been wasted as a forward in his time at Carlton.
Following three promising seasons at Adelaide as a key forward, McGovern moved to the Blues ahead of the 2019 campaign.
However, his first year in Navy Blue would be his best. The 27-year-old has battled numerous injuries over the past several years and has failed to make good on the promise he showed at Adelaide in his 34 games for Carlton.
He was earmarked for a move to the backline in 2022 even before Liam Jones’ surprise retirement, and the move has proved a revelation so far.
His impressive pre-season form was backed up in Round 1, as McGovern recorded 14 disposals and 14 rebound 50s against the Tigers, while he also took a stunning hangar on Thursday night.
McGovern's grab, the slick ball movement and Crippa's finish 🙌
— AFL (@AFL) March 17, 2022
A lot to like about this passage for @CarltonFC fans!#AFLBluesTigers pic.twitter.com/VE4WgAgZ88
It’s left Gerard Healy questioning why Carlton didn’t make the move sooner.
“He reminds me of Jeremy Howe,” Healy told AFL Nation.
“I’m staggered they didn’t try him there (defence) the last three years, it’s just been bewildering.
“The beauty of him is he’s a great interceptor, but he’s arguably their best kick.
“He comes off the half-back line, he’s got great vision, and it was just a waste of two years for that kid and that club playing in the forward line.
“It was never going to work.”
It’s understood McGovern wasn’t in great shape when he arrived at Carlton, something that influenced his ability to showcase his best footy.
Healy still shares concerns about the defender’s body holding up, but believes if it does, Carlton has found a gem.
“I understand all that, his body is a problem,” Healy added.
“Let’s just hope his body stays with him, he’s got his maturity, and they (Blues) look potent.”
Carlton romped home over Richmond with a dominant final quarter on Thursday night, McGovern and the rest of the Blues' backline barely needing to raise a finger as the midfield dominated.