The Carlton Football Club confirmed today that it has completed a trade with the Brisbane Lions that will see key position player Lachlan Henderson and selection 12 in the 2009 Draft head to the Blues in exchange for selection 27 and Brendan Fevola who will move to Brisbane to play for the Lions.

“Prior to the AFL Exchange Period we announced that we had made what was a difficult decision for everyone at Carlton, that we would be seeking to trade Brendan Fevola and following discussions with Brendan during the last week he agreed he needed a change of environment for his future and his preference was to be traded rather than return to Carlton,” said Carlton President Stephen Kernahan.

Kernahan confirmed the decision to trade Fevola was made by the Board after consultation with the Football Department and Management and did not involve the players.

“This decision is based on what we believe is best for the Carlton Football Club, importantly the playing group or individual players were not involved in the decision, it was a matter for the Club and not just an on-field issue,” Kernahan said.

Fevola has been at Carlton for 11 seasons after being recruited with selection 38 overall in the 1998 National Draft. He made his debut in round 17, 1999 and has played 187 games and kicked 575 goals.

“We wish Brendan all the best and we hope the move to Brisbane will provide him with the opportunity to continue his career in a new environment,” said Kernahan.

Lachlan Henderson, who turns 20 in December, was recruited to Brisbane from the Geelong Falcons in 2007 draft as a tall forward, standing at 196cm, and weighing in at 95kg. He joined the Lions as a graduate of the AIS/AFL Academy. Henderson has played 15 games and has kicked 3 goals.

Carlton coach Brett Ratten met Carlton’s two new recruits at Visy Park today and is keen on what they will provide the Blues in 2010.

“We look forward to officially welcoming Lachlan to the Carlton Football Club. It is great to add a young key position player to our team for 2010. Lachlan was a top 10 draft selection just two years ago, his opportunities have been limited in Brisbane and we believe he will be an important power forward for Carlton for many years to come,” Ratten said.