Barry Hall says Richmond’s Jack Riewoldt can reinvigorate his career if he moves clubs
Jon Ralph
Herald Sun
July 11, 2014 8:34PM
PREMIERSHIP spearhead Barry Hall believes it is time for Jack Riewoldt to move to a rival club to reinvigorate his career.
Riewoldt has kicked 41 goals in 15 games this season and was equal third on the Coleman Medal tally entering this round.
But with Richmond trying to develop new avenues to goal and Riewoldt at times hounded by the media over his antics, Hall wonders if it would be best for him to head elsewhere.
Riewoldt last year signed a three-year contract extension, showing his loyalty by knocking back a huge offer from Fremantle.
Fellow Tigers forward Tyrone Vickery has been thrown up by commentators as trade bait, and triple-club goalkicker Hall says Riewoldt should consider a move.
“I think Jack would be better at another club. I think he needs a fresh start,’’ he said.
“He needs to almost wipe or eradicate some of the things he has had in the past. To go to another club, it has to be the right fit for him, and to go to a club with a really strong culture where it’s all about team, that would be a good place to move for him.”
Asked on Radio Sports National if Fremantle would be a good option, he replied: “Definitely. 100 per cent. They are very strong in culture. It’s not about individuals. I think he would thrive in a place like that. He probably wouldn’t kick as many goals but in terms of the development of Jack Riewoldt and team success, it would be a great move.”
Riewoldt has long professed his love of the club, but has drawn heat for a media ban and his clumsy exit from the club after being censured by coach Damien Hardwick for criticising team tactics.
The Tigers are certain to stick with him but must make hard decisions on a host of middle tier players.
The likes of Matt Arnot, Jake Batchelor, Matt Dea, Brett O’Hanlon, Aaron Edwards, Brad Helbig, Jake King, Orren Stephensen and former captain Chris Newman will all have their futures considered at season’s end.
Captain Trent Cotchin this week signalled his decision to sign another long-term contract with the club when his deal expires at the end of 2015.
Hall believes Riewoldt needs a circuit-breaker for his career, even if he does not realise it.
“We have seen it even from my point of view, I went to Sydney and it was the best thing I have ever done. Sometimes you can get stale without even realising it in a football club.
“You love the place and want to reward the people who gave you the chance, but it can deteriorate. I think Jack is at that stage.”
http://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-premiership/barry-hall-says-richmonds-jack-riewoldt-can-reinvigorate-his-career-if-he-moves-clubs/story-e6frf3e3-1226986149010/
