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.”
Brendon the 1st
Roar Rookie
He's 6"5' might be the go, all we need is a lock down type defender, Talia or Daryl Wakelin like. If he can do that then awesome
Cozzy
Roar Rookie
Like you said Hub, I also dont know much about Finlayson but Dawson on the other hand would be very handy for us and I've heard he is really good mates with Aliir. Hopefully that (and in the window) will be enough to put us in front of the crows :silly: .
pablocruz
Roar Rookie
Finlayson would add absolutely nothing to Port. A front runner who goes awol in big games. Not what Port need.
Maxy
Roar Rookie
Heard Lienert in a interview saying he is happy doing what he does for Port,so I think and hope he stays.Finlayson from GWS has apparently had a medical done at Port,do not know if thats good or bad,haven't seen enough of him to make an opinion.Dawson would be handy for us I reckon.wouldn't turn him away if he wanted to come to us,
Brendon the 1st
Roar Rookie
He lost his mobility young due to injury, definitely didn't live up to a pick 4.
Brendon the 1st
Roar Rookie
Lienert will request a trade I reckon, I would def trade/delist Clurey and Woodcock and I'd also change captain to Ollie Wines. Would love to go after Gunstan and a big fullback, maybe Tarrant from North or Carlisle from St Kilda, someone who can slot straight in for 2 years to help with a premiership.
Brendon the 1st
Roar Rookie
Well done Hammer, you've been a good servant of the club. This is probably the right thing to do, it's a cruel part of the AFL
Joe from Perth
Guest
Good player, great kick. But has been surpassed by some of our younger players who are only going to get better with more games. Hartlett peaked a few years back. It makes you wonder who else Port will move on. Going from good to great won't be pain-free. Marshall is not strong enough to be a key forward. Dixon can't kick reliably (and is 31). Clurey is probably not in our best 22, and would have some trade value right now. Motlop perhaps. Hmmm.
The Sports Lover
Roar Rookie
Good luck Hamish. He was a loyal servant of the PAFC for over a decade. At his best he was more than useful. Nevertheless, I can’t shake off the perception that he never really achieved his full potential. He was seemingly susceptible to frequent injury which gave his career a stop/start feeling. He is a talented player. I wish him all the best. Thanks for the memories Hammer.