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North Melbourne’s worst nightmare has just come true, with prized number one draft pick Jason Horne-Francis requesting a trade.
The South Australian-born Horne-Francis wants to be traded to Port Adelaide, despite being contracted until the end of 2023.
The 19-year old has battled homesickness and media scrutiny in a difficult first AFL season, as the Roos won just two games to finish with a second consecutive wooden spoon.
Rumours have frequently swirled that he was unhappy at the struggling club, with the Kangaroos reportedly unimpressed by him travelling back to South Australia without their knowledge mid-season.
Horne-Francis also famously ‘liked’ a fake trade post on social media suggesting he be traded to the Power.
North list manager Brady Rawlings confirmed the youngster’s trade request in a statement on Sunday night, but maintained the club intends to hold him to his contract.
“Jason is contracted for next year, we’ve invested significantly in him as our first-ever No.1 pick just 12 months ago and we view him as a key part of the club’s plans going forward,” Rawlings said.
“We appreciate Jason’s circumstances but at the same time we’re determined to look after the best interests of North Melbourne.”
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