AFL.com.au's Adam McNicol chats to Carlton Premiership player Earl Spalding about what he likes and dislikes about the modern game.
 

What do you like most about the game?
The way it brings people together for a common purpose and a common goal.

What don't you like?
I get really concerned when people have knee-jerk reactions to the way they see the game. It has been going for a long time and it tends to work itself out. When flooding was huge in the game, it sorted itself out.

What would you change about the game?
I'd get some fairness into the AFL draw. It is manufactured to get blockbuster crowds and it just isn't fair.

Favourite player and why?
I really admire the way that Jonathan Brown has gone about his career. His courage has been unbelievable. People are complaining that it has become a soft game, but it certainly hasn't. I've got a lot of admiration for all AFL players.

How is your body holding up?
I'm getting larger, which is a bit of an issue, but my body is pretty good. I've had a few knee issues, but if I do a fair bit of walking they stay in pretty good shape.

How will your former clubs Melbourne and Carlton go this year?
Everyone at Melbourne seems confident, and I think their best sides looks okay, but I that if they win four or five games it will be a great result. I'm not sure how the Blues will go. I think Mick Malthouse still needs some time to put his stamp on the team. But they can make the finals, for sure.