West Coast defender Tom Barrass says Jeremy McGovern would be worth every cent of a $7 million deal, and he’s confident the star backman will re-sign with the Eagles.
McGovern will be a free agent at season’s end, and he has reportedly been offered in excess of $7 million over six seasons by a Victorian club.
Other Melbourne-based clubs have also expressed their interest in luring McGovern their way.
If the 25-year-old decides to stay at West Coast, it’s likely it would be on significantly less money.
Barrass was glowing in his praise of McGovern, and he thinks the two-time All-Australian will stay with West Coast.
“He’s the man, Gov,” Barrass said.
“He’s just one of those players, he doesn’t even know that he’s doing it, but he’s just chopping up non-stop.
“He’s a real desperate footballer. He’s so hard to beat one-on-one.
“He’s a big brick. I 100 per cent think he’s worth the money, and I’m sure he’ll come to terms with West Coast and settle on a fair deal.”
McGovern starred in Sunday’s 62-point pre-season loss to Fremantle.
West Coast’s midfield were blown away in that match, with Fremantle winning the inside 50m count a whopping 61-33.
It meant McGovern was inundated all day, and the 196cm star dominated in the air and at ground level.
Barrass is certain the contract talk surrounding McGovern won’t affect his teammate’s form.
“He doesn’t buy into the outside influence. He’s not a big head,” Barrass said.
“He doesn’t have a high opinion of himself. He’s a really grounded character. I’m sure they’ll settle on an agreement.”
Barrass is fast emerging as a star in his own right, with his game style quite similar to McGovern’s.
The pair’s intercepting ability and marking talents have seen them become a formidable force in defence.
Barrass said McGovern had played a huge part in his development.
“He’s probably the model key defender in the competition, him and (Richmond’s Alex) Rance, who I want to try to play like,” Barrass said.
“They’re probably the best two in the competition right now.”
Barrass battled through a groin injury last season, but is hoping for a pain-free 2018.
truetigerfan
Guest
Didn't see it. Guessing. There's your problem, dude. Consider the inside 50s, midfield smashing, round the ground clearances, etc. and you may better understand how good he was. And, too, you can't always blame the backline for heavy losses. The problems emanate, often, from further afield.
Floyd Calhoun
Guest
McGovern “starred” in a 62 point loss?! I didn’t see it, but I’m guessing the rest of the backline must be pretty bloody ordinary if that’s the case.
User
Roar Rookie
Gov will be staying. Colin Young doing classic Colin Young things to try and make his contract larger at wce. Gov is a west Aussie. His missus is a west Aussie, his plumbing business is in Perth.
Aligee
Guest
I think McGovern is a better footballer than Rance, Rance however is a much better all round athlete. i would have more more confidence what Barass says if he had the ninth letter of our alphabet at the end of his surname.
Ditto
Guest
In 2015 it was reported in The Australian that Alex Rance had signed a 4 year agreement to stay a Tiger for 2.6 M, that is 650K per annum til the end of 2019. In 2018 the salary cap has increased by about 21%. Meaning that 650K is worth about 790K in 2018. Given that McGovern is the same age as Rance was in 2015, it is reasonable to suggest that if WCE rate McGovern similarly to Rance at the same stage of their careers then 790K would be a reasonable offer. 7M over 6 years equates to 1.17M per annum, 380K per year more. And it's for a further 2 years, I don't think Rance will be receiving a big pay rise after he's turned 30. If I'm McGovern I'd be saying see you later WA, I'll see you in 6 years time when I'm a spritely 32 year old.