Fremantle Coach Justin Longmuir Embraces Hayden Young's Impending Return as a Positive Challenge
Fremantle Dockers coach Justin Longmuir expressed optimism and a smile when addressing the upcoming return of star player Hayden Young from a hamstring injury, describing it as a good problem for the team. Young is expected to make his comeback within the next two weeks, bolstering a Fremantle side that has started the AFL season with a strong 3-1 record.
Midfield Dynamics and Competition for Spots
With Young's return imminent, questions arise about how much midfield time the 24-year-old will receive. This comes as players like Shai Bolton and Murphy Reid have thrived with increased centre bounce attendances in his absence. Bolton has been in career-best form since moving into the midfield in round two, averaging 29 disposals over his past three games. Reid also impressed with a career-high 26 disposals in Fremantle's narrow two-point victory against Adelaide on Friday night, contributing as both a midfielder and high-half forward.
Additionally, Matt Johnson and Neil Erasmus have gained valuable midfield minutes, adding to the team's depth. Fremantle's midfield, led by standout performers Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw, who were dominant against the Crows, is considered among the best in the AFL. Longmuir acknowledged the uncertainty in balancing the midfield upon Young's return, stating, It's a good problem to have, and when it's time, we'll work out Youngy's role. Where it allows him to have an impact, work out his game time. I am looking forward to that problem. I don't really see it as a problem.
Praise for Emerging Talent and Team Depth
Longmuir specifically commended Murphy Reid, last year's rising star winner, for his composure and skill during the critical final term against Adelaide. Reid's performance was key in holding off a fast-finishing Crows team in front of nearly 50,000 fans at Adelaide Oval. Longmuir noted, He's growing. He's got some good teammates around him showing him the way, teaching him his craft. We've put him in the midfield a little bit more this year, and it's given him another string to his bow. We still love what he does down forward. I thought he had some big moments in the last quarter as well.
The Dockers' depth extends beyond the midfield, with star recruit Mason Cox making an impact in the reserves. Cox recorded 45 hit-outs, 24 disposals, six inside 50s, and a goal in his debut for Peel Thunder, keeping pressure on No.1 ruckman Sean Darcy. Other players like Jeremy Sharp and Nathan O'Driscoll also delivered strong performances, with Sharp notching 28 disposals and O'Driscoll adding 22 touches and six tackles.
Additional Returns and Ongoing Competition
Exciting forward Michael Frederick is also nearing a return from a pre-season ankle injury, expected back in the coming weeks. Longmuir emphasized the healthy competition within the squad, saying, There's pressure on guys, but there's pressure on guys to earn a spot in the team, which is often forgotten about. We're winning, and players are playing their role; they will hold their spot, and players have to come in and force them out of their spot. We've got Michael Frederick coming back in the next couple of weeks as well, so they're all good problems to have.
This depth and competitive environment position Fremantle well as they navigate the challenges of the AFL season, with Young's return adding another layer of strategic flexibility for Coach Longmuir.
