McLeod wants Johncock back for Crows - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

McLeod wants Johncock back for Crows

By Daniel Brettig 04/08/2008 07:00:34 PM Comments (0)

Adelaide ace Andrew McLeod would dearly like to play his 300th AFL match alongside indigenous offsider Graham Johncock.

McLeod also feels Johncock has made the sort of progress in his personal affairs that he will be close to selection this week.

Johncock was dropped for the first time in his career prior to Adelaide's win over Sydney a fortnight ago after a form downturn thought to have been influenced by family problems.

But he has performed well since then for the Port Adelaide Magpies in the SANFL and injuries to Jason Porplyzia and Chris Knights appear likely to open up a spot.

The Crows have made it clear that though coach Neil Craig and his match committee will decide on Johncock's form, it will be up to the players to decide if his off-field preparations have returned to the appropriate level.

"I think he's definitely improving in what he needs to do and that's all we ask," McLeod said.

"Hopefully, for Graham's sake, it's something that's going to hold him in good stead for the rest of his career.

"We've had a bit of a chat - we always have a bit of a chat.

"The reality is, and Graham knows, that he's a bit of a leader with the young guys and it's important for him to be able to uphold the right standards.

"With the performances he's put in over the last couple of weeks with the Magpies, he's certainly putting himself up there.

"He's coming along and he's working on what he needs to do.

"Hopefully, he might get an opportunity, but that's something Craigy and the rest of the selectors will have to sit down and work out."

McLeod and Johncock have been a vital pairing over the past few seasons as the creative runners setting up play out of Adelaide's defensive half, but if recalled Johncock may be drafted into a small forward's role to cover for the loss of Porplyzia.

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