There's a host of young players who have a big future at the Blues, according to Carlton assistant coach Brad Green.
Speaking to Crocmedia on Wednesday night, Green praised the likes of Patrick Cripps, Troy Menzel, Dylan Buckley and Nick Graham who are helping set standards and hit targets at the Club.
“The standards he’s (Cripps) driving for such a young age is terrific. At the start of last pre-season he went away, got a sprints coach, lost some weight and came back really fit and determined,” Green said.
“Menzel is the future; Dylan Buckley’s been playing solid footy and also Nick Graham who’s been out for a couple of weeks.
“We’re just starting to show some signs that we’ve got some kids that are on the improve and who have a big future at the Carlton Football Club.”
Under coach John Barker, Carlton has so far won two games and blooded a debutant in Tom Fields.
Green says Barker’s message to the team has been clear and very much about encouragement.
“He’s said to the boys I want you to take risks and enjoy the game for what it is –you’ve got great talent and you wouldn’t be here otherwise. Ultimately he wants to see those talents come to fruition on game day.”
When Barker took over in Round 9, Green says the Blues created a new “ladder” and focused on hitting a few main targets each week, especially pressure acts.
“Footy is an efforts based business, if you’re not bringing effort you can’t bring a game plan and you can’t bring style,” he said.
Bryce Gibbs and Dennis Armfield will miss this week’s match against Fremantle due to injury. Green says their absence will allow younger players to put their hand up for selection.
“They’re a couple of big losses but what it does is create an opportunity for other guys to come in and cement a place,” he said.
Speaking of injuries, it seems Green has one of his own.
Each time Carlton plays on a Friday night, Green flies back home to Tasmania for the weekend, where he likes to have a kick of the footy. But it seems his body isn’t what it used to be.
“Five weeks ago I tore my hamstring and have been out for three or four weeks, so I’m just slowly getting back – I just love getting out there and having a kick with my mates,” he said.
