Three-time AFL premiership fullback Mal Michael, who came out of retirement to play under Kevin Sheedy at Essendon, has urged Luke Power to continue his playing career at Greater Western Sydney.

After a stellar career with Brisbane, Michael announced the end of his AFL career in 2006, only to play two more seasons with the Bombers after Sheedy helped change his mind.

Lions midfielder Power is facing a similar conundrum, having declared his retirement in the penultimate round of the AFL season.

The 282-game veteran has since been in discussions with the Giants and both he and coach Sheedy have refused to rule out a return to the field.

Michael, who spent six years playing alongside Power in Brisbane, believes the 31-year-old would be a good fit at GWS.

"He was very well liked at the club, also well respected. I think he'd be a great acquisition for Greater Western Sydney," Michael told AAP.

"I think for an inaugural captain they should probably give it to someone that would probably be there for five or so years, but I would definitely have him in my leadership group.

"I still think that he's got a lot to offer as a footballer.

"Luke's still in good enough form to keep playing.

"I'm not sure of the circumstances why he's not playing next year ... I understand their (Brisbane's) cap is pretty tight, so maybe they weren't going to offer him a new contract."

Sheedy has a track record in luring players out of retirement, having convinced Michael, Paul Samon and Tim Watson to return to the game.

"The thing with Sheeds is, he likes to explore all avenues and opportunities that are available to him," Michael said.

"That's what he did with myself. I think he realises that if he can add any value to his current squad, he'll have a look at that.

"A lot of clubs are now going with a youth policy, but they also need some guidance along the way - and Sheeds was really big on that."

And with the Giants set to have an incredibly youthful squad in 2012, Michael believes Power could play a major role in Sheedy's plans for next year.

"Absolutely. Especially with a team like Greater Western Sydney, they're going to have so many young players there," Michael said.

"The last thing you want is for them to implode on themselves - similar to what's happened at Melbourne, they released all of their experienced players.

"I think Luke would be perfect in that position, because he's a very good communicator. He's a good teacher as well."

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