GWS Giants coach Adam Kingsley has revealed he is unsure whether captain and spiritual leader Toby Greene will remain at the club beyond this season. The 32-year-old foundation member, who has played over 270 games for the expansion club, is widely believed to be considering a return to his home state of Victoria and is expected to make a decision on his future in the coming weeks.
Kingsley quizzed on Greene's plans
Appearing on Channel 7’s The Agenda Setters on Wednesday night, Kingsley was directly questioned about Greene’s intentions. When asked by 7SPORT expert Tom Morris whether Greene would inform the club if he decided to leave, Kingsley’s initial response was blunt: “Not sure.”
After further reflection, the coach elaborated: “Probably … I mean it won’t impact the way that I communicate to Toby. It won’t impact the way that he plays. You know he’s a full pro. That’s what they do in the NRL up here. We do find it a little bit strange (in the AFL) but they seem to find a way and still move on and perform.”
Hopeful but uncertain
Morris pressed Kingsley on whether he was hopeful Greene would stay. “Who knows,” the coach replied. Kingsley emphasised that Greene is a critically important player and a key figure in the club’s culture. “I would expect Toby would certainly let us know earlier rather than later and we’re very hopeful that he stays. He’s obviously a critically important player to us and a captain and a foundation member and really set the culture as to how it actually sits right now, so we’d like to see him continue that.”
Despite the uncertainty, Kingsley remains cautiously optimistic. “Well I don’t really know. I think he’ll stay based on his actions and the way that he carries himself around the club but who knows,” he said.
Oliver praised
When asked about recruit Clayton Oliver, Kingsley expressed delight with the former Melbourne star’s impact. “He’s contributed to us enormously. I think he’s back to his best form … He’s been one of our most important and best players so far this year,” Kingsley said.
Several Victorian clubs are reportedly monitoring Greene’s situation closely, with the star expected to weigh his options during the bye period.
