Alastair Clarkson, the coach of North Melbourne, says he would be “delighted” if a rival team offered disgraced former Kangaroos midfielder Tarryn Thomas a chance at redemption.
The player in question was fired by the Kangaroos on the eve of the 2024 season, following an initial 18-match suspension for alleged inappropriate behaviour by the league.
Thomas also vacated from controversy to controversy for a large portion of the 2023 season.
Following Cats list manager Andrew Mackie’s suggestion that Geelong would leave the door open for the troubled star, Clarkson made his remarks.
According to Mackie, the Cats constantly consider players who have had “bumpy” careers to see if they would be a better fit for their team.
“At times if you want to be in the market for players that are really talented and have that skill set, often if they become available to you, it means that something has been a little bit bumpy for them along the way,” Mackie told SEN Radio.
The 23-year-old was also connected to Geelong by Kane Cornes.
“It would surprise me if the Cats hadn’t called Thomas yet,” Cornes remarked on Monday’s episode of Nine’s Footy Classified.
Geelong coach Chris Scott said his team was “open” to signing players from other clubs after making those remarks.
Clarkson says he wouldn’t be shocked to see the Kangaroos midfielder, who appeared in 66 games, sign with another team.
“No, not at all. “Taryn, the AFL, and his management must complete any necessary procedures for him to be eligible to play AFL football,” Clarkson stated.
But I was never doubtful that was something he would be able to accomplish.
“Whether it’s Geelong or another club, we’re thrilled if he gets that chance…
“To try and give all men and women across the nation the opportunity to play football is the main objective of this.”
“They’re passionate about playing our game; how can we help them get the chance to play it?
“If he can do the things necessary to get himself right to put himself in that space again, then we’re delighted he’s going to get the chance.”
However, since rivals were now talking about Thomas, Clarkson moved quickly to dispel any rumours that his team would welcome him back to Arden Street.
“We made every effort to make it function. It was unsuccessful for a multitude of reasons. Tarryn and the football team that wishes to bring him on board and offer him that chance will decide what happens next, he stated.
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