Richmond, Fremantle to battle for Harley Bennell’s servicesANNE MATHER
Herald-Sun
October 1, 2015HARLEY Bennell has begun talking with clubs about a new home next year as Richmond and Fremantle ramp up their battle for his services.
The talented Gold Coast midfielder caught up with Richmond midfielder Dustin Martin and Tigers officials yesterday for the first time.
Tigers assistant Mark ‘Choco’ Williams will be a key aspect of Richmond’s attraction for Bennell given his critical role helping Martin mature into a regular match-winner.
Bennell is also expected to meet with up Fremantle officials and coach Ross Lyon before the weekend, with the Dockers contingent in town until Sunday.
Ex-Sun Bennell has categorically denied reports he played any part in a fight during a local game in West Australia last week, with video footage showing him sitting uninvolved in the grandstand.
Lyon said at Wednesday’s Coaches Awards he was keen to see if Bennell wanted to play at Fremantle.
“Clearly Harley wants to come home, there’s two clubs in Perth and he’s got a really strong connection with a lot of our players,” Lyon said.
“But in saying that, everyone’s exploring all options. He’s obviously a very talented young man.
“His family’s in WA down in Mandurah and he’s close to his family. That all points well for a WA club to maybe embrace Harley and give an opportunity to grow.
“We’re open to improving our list but they’re list management decisions.”
http://www.themercury.com.au/afl-trades-richmond-fremantle-to-battle-for-harley-bennells-services/story-fnj3twbb-1227551251977