Jordan Clark commended the progress of Brandon Walker, the returning defender, as he works towards a comeback in 2024 following a knee injury in the previous season against Collingwood. Clark, speaking to the media, acknowledged Walker’s remarkable recovery during the pre-season and anticipated his swift return to match play after rejoining football activities in recent weeks.
Clark, who temporarily filled in for Walker’s lockdown defender role at the end of the previous season, jokingly advised Walker to prioritize his recovery. He expressed admiration for players in the demanding position and acknowledged Walker’s excellence in it, conceding that Walker is better suited for the role.
Looking ahead to 2024, Clark shared his excitement about the heightened competition for positions within the team. He pointed out Hayden Young’s shift from defense at the end of the previous year as a factor influencing selection decisions for senior coach Justin Longmuir. Clark welcomed the healthy competition at training, emphasizing the ongoing uncertainty about the final lineup for round one.
Reflecting on Fremantle’s successful 2022 season, where they finished fifth on the ladder and reached the semi-finals, Clark highlighted the team’s strong defensive performance as a crucial factor. He expressed the team’s collective desire to return to that level of defensive prowess.
Clark also underscored the significance of James Aish’s extensive experience, describing it as a valuable asset to the backline. He praised Aish for his calming influence, problem-solving skills, and overall composure, emphasizing the veteran player’s positive impact on the team.