Port Adelaide stalwart Hamish Hartlett says there’s no “bad blood” with the AFL club after being told he will be delisted.
Hartlett, a member of the Power’s leadership group, believes he still has much to offer at AFL level.
But Port coach Ken Hinkley disagrees, telling Hartlett the club doesn’t believe the 31-year-old can keep pace with the modern game.
“He doesn’t physically think that I can keep up with the demands of the game, particularly in the position I play at half-back against some players that are quite lively,” Hartlett told SEN SA radio on Tuesday.
“Also, with the development of some of our younger guys coming through … he doesn’t feel like there’s a position on the list for me anymore.
“I didn’t necessarily agree with them. But I can understand the angle that they’re coming from.
“No bad blood. I have got nothing but love for that footy club.”
Hartlett – Port’s highest-ever draft pick, No.4 in 2008 – had knee surgery during a season when he featured just 10 times for the Power.
He didn’t play in Port’s finals campaign which ended with a 71-point preliminary final loss to the Western Bulldogs on Saturday night.
The 198-gamer said he would explore playing on at another club.
“I firmly believe I’m capable of playing good AFL footy,” he said.
“I’m more than happy to explore any option.”
© AAP
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