MATTHEW Cottrell has been updated to Carlton’s senior list.
Ahead of next week’s 2023 AFL Draft, it’s been confirmed that the Blues’ running man has been elevated to the senior list after five seasons on the rookie list.
It’s been a story of persistence for Cottrell, who was originally a supplemental selection period signing on the eve of the 2019 season.
It was a career-best season for the 23-year-old in 2023, overcoming a foot injury in pre-season to return in Round 9.
Playing his previous campaign as a wingman, Cottrell embraced a new role as a high half-forward this year, using his running capacity to challenge opposition defenders from an offensive and defensive perspective.
The boyhood Blue had no finer hour than the elimination final, where he was arguably the best player on the ground at half time. Earning plaudits from teammates, coaches and the football world alike, Cottrell starred with 17 disposals and two goals as the Blues’ hung on for a drought-breaking finals win.
The 2023 AFL Draft kicks off next Monday night with the first round, before all remaining rounds of the national draft take place on Tuesday. The Pre-Season and Rookie Drafts will culminate proceedings on Wednesday afternoon.
