Riley replaces Hinkley at Suns

Carlton assistant coach Mark Riley, who is heading to the Gold Coast, talks to Ed Curnow and Andrew Carrazzo during Blues training. Picture: George Salpigtidis. Source: Herald Sun

FORMER Carlton assistant Mark Riley will coach at Gold Coast next year.

Riley has agreed to a two-year contract at the Suns and will fill the void left by Ken Hinkley, who has been appointed Port Adelaide senior coach.

Riley reached a financial settlement with Carlton, which last week said his position had been made redundant.

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Cats looking beyond 2013: Scott

Geelong coach Chris Scott has defended the club's decision to sign two 28-year-old players. Picture: George Salpigtidis. Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG has not compromised its long-term future by re-loading with experienced pair Hamish McIntosh and Jared Rivers for a shot at next year's flag.

While many see the recruitment of the two 28-year-olds plus the introduction of Gold Coast midfielder Josh Caddy as a sign the Cats are positioning for another premiership run, coach Chris Scott says it's not a short-term fix.

"We were keen to look at things that would help improve us in the short-term without compromising the long term at all which is what these three things do," he said.

"Caddy is a top-10 pick from two years ago so he's still years away from his best footy but he's going to help short-term and long-term.

"The other two I think help our best team but they also help our depth as well and the ability to transition young players into our team without depending on them completely.

"The only way bringing in old players comprises you long term is if you give up too much for them and we have given up very little. The other thing is if you pay them too much and we're certainly not doing that either."

The Cats gave up theirs second round pick (No.36) to the Kangaroos for McIntosh while Rivers came as an unrestricted free agent from Melbourne on a two-year deal.

Scott said he understood there was an element of risk in the Cats' trade strategy.

"Hamish at his best is a very good player, we know he comes as a 28-year-old who hasn't played much footy in the last couple of years and he's got a significant injury history so there are risks associated with that and if it doesn't work, we are prepared, we can accept the worst case scenario there," he said.

"It's a little bit the same with Jared Rivers, he comes as a free-agent who basically takes up the last spot on our list if you want to look at it that way.

"He is a pretty well credentialed player but he and Hamish understand that we also have got some pretty good players that play in the same position as them."

Importantly, Geelong has retained its first-round pick, No.15, but will have only one other live pick in next month's national draft given the Cats already committed to upgrading rookie Jessie Stringer.

After a shock exit to Fremantle in the first week of the finals this year, Scott is confident that despite the loss of club great Matthew Scarlett the Cats will be a contender again.

"We know it's going to be difficult for us and history suggests that we shouldn't be one of the premiership favourites next year but that's an outsiders point of view," he said.

"We don't think that the players we brought in are the answer. We think they are going to help a little bit but more we think it satisfies multiple objectives."

Rivers described as "ridiculous" any suggestion that he came to Simonds Stadium as Scarlett's replacement.

"To be compared to, or to try and play a similar role, to Matthew Scarlett is just ridiculous," he said.

"He's going to go down as one of the best full-backs of all time. I'm just grateful for the opportunity Geelong has given me.

"It was a massive decision (to leave Melbourne). The last two years have definitely been more challenging mentally than physically.

"I can't wait to have some success at Geelong as I still think they are a real chance of winning a premiership."

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Cooney's cutting-edge treatment

Western Bulldogs are hoping Adam Cooney can return to his best with the help of radical surgery in Germany. Picture: Michael Klein. Source: Herald Sun

BROWNLOW Medallist Adam Cooney is set to undertake cutting-edge treatment in Germany on the troublesome cracked patella that has jeopardised his career.

Cooney will fly out to the club's European training camp on Sunday, October 28,  to visit a specialist in Dusseldorf.

The Dogs are highly encouraged by the progress Cooney made with his knee this year and his form in the last weeks of the season.

The treatment is worth several thousand dollars but will not involve surgery and has the club hoping it might further allow Cooney to train and play to his undoubted potential.

He will join the Dogs after his three-day treatment process at their London base, as they train there before their exhibition game against Port Adelaide.

Cooney is not attending Munich's Hans-Wilhelm Muller-Wohlfahrt, the controversial specialist who injects calf blood into patients.

He has helped Geelong's Max Rooke and Richmond's Mark Coughlan and Dylan Grimes with their soft-tissue problems.

The 27-year-old has battled for years with the effects of the cracked patella, which limits his ability to train regularly.

"The treatment has been used by elite athletes around the world in basketball and gridiron and other sports, so we have explored it," football manager James Fantasia said.

"Adam is very keen to have a go at it. He has got himself into this particular treatment and we go over to London on Tuesday so he will leave two days early and join the group over there."

Meanwhile, the Dogs are hopeful of satisfying West Coast's demands after 21-year-old midfielder Koby Stevens nominated them as his club of choice.

The former Gippsland Power inside midfielder chosen the Dogs ahead of Essendon and St Kilda, and while he has real potential despite an injury-plagued start to his career Brendan McCartney's side has the whip hand.

They hope to satisfy West Coast with a second or third round pick for Stevens, but have the fourth selection in the pre-season draft should West Coast play hard ball on a trade.

It is a boon for the Dogs to be chosen ahead of more highly-fancied Victorian rivals, and with five picks inside 50 they should be able to satisfy West Coast.

His decision, revealed by superfooty.com.au yesterday, comes after he managed only 11 games in his three seasons at West Coast because of their midfield depth and his injuries.

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McIntosh dismisses injury fears

Geelong recruits Jared Rivers and Hamish McIntosh at Simonds Stadium Picture: Glenn Ferguson Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG recruit Hamish McIntosh is "itching at the bit" to prove he can still play football at the top level after a nightmare run with injuries.

McIntosh yesterday agreed to a three-year deal with the Cats, turning his back on North Melbourne after 107 games.

The 28-year-old missed the bulk of last season after injuring his knee in the Kangaroos' Round 7 loss to the Western Bulldogs.

McIntosh worked his way back into match fitness but pulled the plug on his return, choosing instead to have LARS surgery on his right knee.

He played just one game in 2011 because of achilles operations on both tendons.

But McIntosh is confident of he can have an impact at Geelong with a full pre-season under his belt.

"The injuries I've had have been more structural, I haven't really had soft tissue injuries ... once you get those injuries right, you're right to go."

But his signing could spell the end for Geelong mature-aged ruckman Orren Stephenson.

Stephenson was plucked out of the VFL in 2011 to bolster the Cats dwindling ruck stocks after the retirement of Brad Ottens.

McIntosh said he was excited about his move to Simonds Stadium and that he was looking forward to mentoring the Cats young ruck brigade.

"(There's) some really good ruckman here with Trent (West), Dawson (Simpson) and Nathan Vardy's an incredibly athletic guy as well.

Department of Trades

"I will be looking to hopefully help them and coach them; they're incredibly talented players so hopefully we can all work well as a unit."

McIntosh said he made the "difficult" decision to leave North Melbourne halfway through last season.

"I was playing some decent football (at the start) but Todd (Goldstein) and I probably weren't connecting really well... I realised it was probably time to move on."

Get breaking trade news on Twitter @superfooty and join the debate on Facebook

 

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Hansen signs two-year deal

Lachlan Hansen has signed a two-year deal with North Melbourne. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne forward Lachie Hansen has ended trade speculation by signing a new two-year contract with the Kangaroos.

Hansen's name had been floated in trade talks and he was linked to Fremantle.

The tall forward was taken with pick three in the 2006 draft and showed signs of delivering on his potential this season.

But his future became clouded as he fell out of contract at the end of the year amid rumoured interest from the Dockers and Greater Western Sydney.

Re-signing the 24-year-old is a boost to the Roos, who have lost Hamish McIntosh to Geelong in the trade period and could still see Cam Pederson, Matt Campbell and Cruize Garlett leave the club.

Department of Trades

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Young enough for Pies

Hawthorn has lost Clinton Young to Collingwood. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD has lured Clinton Young from Hawthorn, only days after the club's football manager said the club's player negotiations were ''done and dusted''.

Earlier this week Magpies football manager Geoff Walsh said the Pies were "done and dusted" in terms of trades - but this time he says he means it.

The Pies have watched their salary cap closely and say recruits Young and Quinten Lynch will take up the space left by departing Sharrod Wellingham and Chris Dawes.

Collingwood has been linked to other fringe players including Melbourne's Stefan Martin, Kangaroo Cam Pederson and young Gold Coast ruckman Tom Hickey.

But Walsh said the club was happy to go to the draft with three first-round picks.

"I don't think we'll do any more trading from a player point of view because we've got some issues from our salary cap that have been well documented throughout the year," he said on AFL trade radio.

"We think three first-round draft picks and given Derek's (recruiting boss Derek Hine) track record of picking players through the draft, we're very happy with that."

McIntosh dismisses injury fears

Collingwood currently holds picks 17, 18 and 20 although they are likely to be pushed back slightly when compensation picks are assigned for lost free agents.

Walsh said some dealing could still take place if Hine was able to improve the club's draft position.

Join the live trades chat here

He said the Pies were delighted to secure Young, and the fact he took so long to make up his mind was a plus.

"I think in end reason took so long to mull over it was he felt a real commitment to the Hawthorn Football Club and I think that's a good thing, we'd all like to think our players aren't just going to up and leave at the drop of a hat."

The Pies last night agreed to sign unrestricted free agent Young on a multi-year deal, trumping Hawthorn's offer for the hard-running wingman.

The Hawks issued a statement this morning saying Young had passed up "a considerable offer" to leave.

"Clinton and his family were a big part of the club and it's disappointing he has chosen to leave," coach Alastair Clarkson said.

Saints lead race for Tom Hickey

"While it's disappointing to lose a member of our 2012 Grand Final team, and a long-time contributor to our club, player movement is a reality in the free agency market," he said.

Young will be unveiled as a Magpie at noon today.

Trade month winners and losers so far

Hawks fullback Stephen Gilham is considering a move, but given he is not a free agent he has a week to consider interest from Greater Western Sydney.

While Young is in demand, Carlton's Bret Thornton heads a list of free agents who will not be taken today so must wait until they are delisted on October 29 to throw themselves back into the free market.

2011 Elimination Final. Carlton v Essendon. MCG. Bret Thornton clears by hand Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Thornton has met with Gold Coast but, given he won't be selected before today's first free agency cut-off, he is still seen as a Carlton player.

I'm not Matthew Scarlett says new Cat Rivers

His task becomes harder after he is delisted, because every delisted player is automatically an unrestricted free agent, regardless of age.

The veteran defender must vie with fellow talls such as Melbourne's former first round draft pick Lucas Cook, who if delisted would be chased by several clubs.

Every deal at Department of Trades

Carlton free agent Jordan Russell will also be delisted by the Blues.

Essendon unrestricted free agent David Hille is yet to commit to another one-year deal with the Dons.

Bomber forward Scott Gumbleton has a week to weigh up his options to stay, or join the Western Bulldogs.

Get breaking trade news on Twitter @superfooty and join the debate on Facebook

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Cats snare Rivers, McIntosh

Melbourne defender Jared Rivers is bound for Geelong. Picture: Michael Klein. Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG has recruited Jared Rivers and Hamish McIntosh in a one-two trade punch.

The out-of-contract Melbourne defender and the Cats today struck a deal that will see Rivers move down the highway in 2013.

The Cats have also confirmed they have signed Kangaroos big man McIntosh on a three-year deal.

In exchange Geelong has handed North Melbourne pick 36 in November's national draft.

The Roos are expected to receive another pick from the Demons for Cam Pederson - and are likely to use one of those selections to get young Port Adelaide midfielder Ben Jacobs.

In a huge day for the Cats, they have also confirmed the details of the deal to get Josh Caddy from the Gold Coast - sending the Suns pick 55 and the compensation pick for losing Gary Ablett two years ago.

Join the live trades chat belowCats football manager Neil Balme said the club had been bolder than previous years in getting deals done.

"The list profile has change a bit, quite a few of our long term great players have retired over the past 2-3 years and that's likely to continue," he said on SEN.

"We've got a relatively young list at one end so we're probably in a position to look at what's going to happen over the next couple of years and we've probably taken a risk on a few older players."

He confirmed youngsters Mitch Brown and Tom Gillies could be on the way out to make way for the new recruits.

"There will be a bit of fallout … we'll have to work through that (next week).

On the prospect of Geelong making even more deals, Balme said: "We're not really expecting to but you never quite know … like most clubs we're reasonably tight on the list, (there's) not a lot of scope to do more."

Every deal at Department of Trades

Rivers' management and Geelong are meeting now to formalise a two-year contract, ending an anxious fortnight for the 27-year-old.

Rivers was an unrestricted free agent and was allowed to move to the club of his choice.

That club has long been Geelong, who made it clear they wanted a ready replacement for recently retired full-back Matthew Scarlett.

The Cats' recruitment of Gold Coast youngster Josh Caddy and their ongoing pursuit of McIntosh had delayed the Rivers deal.

The league-wide uncertainty over compensation picks also muddied the waters.

Kangaroos football manager Donald McDonald said McIntosh had played a key role in North's run to the 2007 preliminary final but had been held back by injuries since.

"Obviously, it's disappointing to lose Hamish but we wish him all the best for his future and acknowledge the significant contribution he's made to our football club," McDonald said.

The move leaves Todd Goldstein as the Roos' No.1 ruckman with recently promoted rookie Majak Daw as back-up.

Hamish McIntosh keeps his eye on the ball. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

The Demons will receive AFL compensation tomorrow for losing free agents Rivers and Brent Moloney, although the compo will be off-set by their acquisition of former Cat Shannon Byrnes.

Rivers is a good friend of Geelong defender Andrew Mackie - a former schoolmate in South Australia - and knows several players at Simonds Stadium.

Port Adelaide also expressed an interest in Rivers after losing Troy Chaplin to Richmond.

Catch 22 picture special: Footy's biggest defectors

Geelong players reacted positively to the news on Twitter, with captain Joel Selwood tweeting "Busy day @CatsInsider #greatresults".

Other players to tweet included:

Tom Hawkins: "Great news for the Cats today! Exciting times getting even more exciting"

Andrew Mackie: "Great work by the club... Looking forward to it all starting again!"

Steve Johnson: "Good news! Look forward to seeing the boys soon.. Been a long time since I played footy with the big h!"

Rivers, who won the AFL Rising Star Award in 2004, played 150 matches for Melbourne after being recruited from North Adelaide with pick 26 in the 2002 national draft.

McIntosh played 107 matches for the Kangaroos, including the first seven this season before going down with a knee injury. He has reportedly recovered well from surgery.

2012 Trade and Free Agency period

MELBOURNE

IN: Chris Dawes (Collingwood), Shannon Byrnes (Geelong), Jack Viney (father-son pick), Jesse Hogan (via 17yo mini-draft), Dom Barry
OUT: Jared Rivers (Geelong), Brent Moloney (Brisbane)
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Scott Gumbleton, Cam Pederson
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Jordan Gysberts, Cale Morton, Stefan Martin
DRAFT PICKS: 4, 58, 64, 82, 100, 118

GEELONG

IN: Josh Caddy (Gold Coast), Jared Rivers (Melbourne), Hamish McIntosh (North Melbourne)
OUT: Shannon Byrnes (Melbourne)
STILL COMING (MAYBE): -
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Mitch Brown, Tom Gillies
DRAFT PICKS: 15, 55, 73, 91, 109

NORTH MELBOURNE

IN: -
OUT: Hamish McIntosh
STILL COMING (MAYBE): Ben Jacobs (Port Adelaide)
STILL GOING (MAYBE): Cam Pederson, Matt Campbell, Cruize Garlett
DRAFT PICKS: 14, 35, 36, 54, 72, 90, 108, 126

- with Jay Clark, Al Paton

Get breaking trade news on Twitter @superfooty and join the debate on Facebook
 

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Tiger signs new deal

David Astbury celebtrates a Tigers goal. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

KEY-position prospect David Astbury has returned Richmond's faith by signing a two-year contract extension.

Astbury, 21, has shown promise at both ends of the ground since making his debut in 2010.

But his development was stalled by a serious knee injury midway through 2011 that kept him out of action until the final two matches of this season.

"We're very pleased to see Dave re-committing to the club," Richmond football manager Craig Cameron said today.

"He is highly regarded, not only for his football ability, but also his excellent character.

"After a bad run with injury, he's now fit and really looking forward to a full pre-season.

"We expect him to come on in leaps and bounds throughout 2013."

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Tippett deal "a joke"

Sydney ruckman Jesse White could end up being a direct swap for Kurt Tippett. Picture: Phil Hillyard. Source: The Daily Telegraph

KURT Tippett's move to Sydney is hours away from being sealed.

And if - as expected - the Crows get the Swans' first-round draft pick (No. 22) and out-of-favour forward-ruckman Jesse White, the trade will carry the tag of a "joke'' with former Richmond and Western Bulldogs coach Terry Wallace.

White, who struggled for game time in Sydney in the past two seasons, travelled to Adelaide today for a medical and a meeting with Crows coach Brenton Sanderson, who returns home today after holidaying in the US.

"Adelaide will be ripped off,'' Wallace said on AFL Trade Radio today.

Inaugural Crows coach Graham Cornes has joined the smashing of the prospective trade, saying it is "pathetic".

"Adelaide wants to be seen as a strong club, but it has shown no strength - it has been led by the nose in negotiations," Cornes said on Radio FIVEaa.

"They should stand firm and have Tippett go to the draft rather than roll over."

But Adelaide's position is not strong in this trade.

If the Crows do not accept Sydney's offer by next Friday's trade deadline, Tippett will fall into the draft pool where Adelaide gets no compensation and Sydney can virtually guarantee drafting the Queenslander by having Tippett nominate a $1 million-a-year salary.

No other AFL clubs can contemplate paying Tippett such a fee.

Department of Trades

Swans boss Andrew Ireland said last night the negotiations to bring Tippett to the Harbour City were progressing well.

"We think it's getting closer and hope there is some news by the end of the week," Ireland said.

"David Noble (Crows list manager) and Kinnear Beatson (Swans list manager) have been working through the issues and there are some things that need to be ticked off.

"Brenton Sanderson arrives back in Adelaide tomorrow and that will allow some of the things that need to be finalised to be done."

Sydney bound? Kurt Tippett has spoke in glowing terms of the Sydney Swans football culture. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE SWANS will play the first two matches of their premiership defence in Sydney, starting with an ANZ Stadium derby against the GWS Giants.

The Round 1 match will be a Giants' home game, with the Swans to unfurl their premiership flag at the SCG in Round 2 against an unknown opponent.

The return derby against GWS will be played at the SCG.

Yesterday, the AFL also revealed the top four teams from 2012 (Sydney, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Adelaide) would all only play the bottom four teams of 2012 (Greater Western Sydney, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Western Bulldogs) on one occasion in 2013, with the single exception of the Swans and Giants' cross-town rivalry.

The 10 non-finalists from 2012 will all be scheduled to have a maximum of two return meetings with top eight sides from 2012.

- with Jon Ralph, Neil Cordy

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Dawes to keep Watts in defence

Jack Watts is likely to spend more time in defence next season. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Chris Dawes has been traded from Collingwood to Melbourne. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

NEW Melbourne signing Chris Dawes will play as a second tall target option to Mitch Clark.

Coach Mark Neeld said the pair had been recruited specifically as the cornerstones of the Demons' forward set-up.

And there could be more tall forwards to come as Neeld said the Demons would continue to talk with possible trade targets Scott Gumbleton and Cameron Pederson, but would be unlikely to recruit both.

He said the arrival of Dawes - picked up in a trade deal with Collingwood that cost the Demons picks 20 and 45 in the draft - was likely to see Jack Watts spending more time in defence.

"It's terrific for Mitch Clark (recruited from Brisbane last season) and the rest of the team to have a second big body down there,'' Neeld said today.

"Dawesy has been brought in to play as a key forward. He won't be doing the 'key forward who goes into the ruck' role with us. We think he's really suited to play as a key forward.''

Neeld said the young Demons will benefit from the premiership experience of Dawes and Geelong forward Shannon Byrnes.

"We talk about the long-term aspect that Chris brings to the club. He's 24 and he also brings a lot of experience coming out of a good culture, the way the Pies go about it, the way they play and the way they train,'' he said.

"He has also managed to play in the last five finals series. Include the drawn Grand Final, he has played in three Grand Finals and cracked it for a flag. We're certainly not underestimated what that brings to our group.

"And we've added Shannon Byrnes as well. Between them, there's a lot of experience at great clubs and the knowledge they can pass on to our boys of what it's like to play at the pointy end.''

Department of Trades

Neeld and assistant coach Leigh Brown, both key members of Collingwood's 2010 premiership, had a chat at Dawes' home recently to convince him that his future was with Melbourne.

"We've got a fair handle on the type of person he is and what he brings to our club,'' the coach said.

"I would describe Dawesy as a really solid citizen. He's very serious about his footy, he's very intelligent, he's studying law off the field. He's an aggressive trainer and plays an aggressive brand of footy. All the things that he wants.

"We did all those medical checks that you need to do (on Dawes' knee). He's already running, so he's over that. He has done the little bit of rehab that you need to do.''

Neeld said the inclusion of Dawes and Clark's recovery from an ankle injury will allow them to continue to develop Watts as part of the backline set-up.

And he's confident the Demons have the midfield to get quick and clean delivery to the big forwards.

"Mitch wasn't playing and we had half our backline playing in the forward line for various reasons,'' Neeld said.

"For the boys in the midfield, like (Jack) Grimes and (Jack) Trengove and (Nathan) Jones, to look up and see two big targets, that's the way we want to play.''

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Rule changes leave clubs in limbo

The substitute will remain, while it is expected a cap on interchanges will be introduced for the 2014 season. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

CLUBS are growing frustrated at the constant rule changes the AFL is implementing, forcing them to change their drafting and list management strategies on the fly.

The AFL yesterday changed two rules affecting ruckmen, opting to penalise big men who initiate contact before the ball leaves the umpire's hand at stoppages.

The league also hinted it would cap interchange rotations at 80 for the 2014 season after trialling it in next season's NAB Cup.

One club's national recruiting manager said the radical and repeated changes were making the game - and the type of athletes required - impossible to predict.

"We need to know if (the bench rules) are going to stay in for 2-3 years or is it going to change again," he told SuperFooty.

Congestions like under 9s: KB

"That's the main thing. We're looking four years in advance when drafting these kids, so that's the challenge.

"The game changes enough by itself without having many rule changes as significant as (a cap on rotations)."

Another club said its recruiting division had already met with conditioning staff to discuss drafting strategies in anticipation of an interchange cap.

A recruiter confirmed that of all the events at the AFL draft combine, the endurance tests were now the most telling.

"We already know if they can play the game or not, so I get the most out of the (beep test and 3km trial)," he said.

Asked if an interchange cap of 80 would kill off big, cumbersome ruckman, the recruiter said: "Yeah, they're in trouble.

"You'd want to be having a major impact with your hitouts to advantage and your stuff around the ground.

"If they can't run endurance-wise then you have to take that into account.

Bounce to get the toss

"If they're a standout player then you hope in a full-time system their running capacity can be improved, so it's just finding that balance."

If the interchange cap is introduced in 2014 it would suit Melbourne's latest recruits.

The Dees secured 17-year-old power forward Jesse Hogan and explosive wingman Dom Barry last week, with both featuring high in the beep test and 3km trial.

Barry finished third in the run, while both players scored 14-2s in the beep, ranking them equal ninth.

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Dogs 'as important as GWS'

Western Bulldogs president David Smorgon announces he will hand over power to former club president Peter Gordon in a press conference at Whitten Oval. Picture: Stuart Walmsley Source: Herald Sun

NEW Western Bulldogs president Peter Gordon says he inherits a club in a much better position than when he left - and which now has the full support of the AFL.

As revealed exclusively on SuperFooty last night, David Smorgon's 17-year reign will end at the club's annual general meeting in December.

In a shock move, Smorgon, 65, last night agreed to hand power to former club president Gordon for the 2013 season.

Smorgon took over the top job at Whitten Oval in 1996 - from anti-merger hero Gordon.

Smorgon is standing down a year earlier than planned after he was swayed by a succession report tabled at a lengthy Bulldogs board meeting yesterday.

The shake-up, to be confirmed by the club today, will see wealthy Dogs director Susan Alberti named as vice-president.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone that has been involved with the Bulldogs and assisted the Bulldogs during my time here. It's been a real team effort," Smorgon said today.

"Being a part of the red, white and blue has been a central part of my life – and while it is sad to depart – I do so with confidence that the Bulldogs have never been better placed to seize the opportunities and tackle the challenges that lay ahead".

Smorgon said he was "thrilled" the board had endorsed Gordon as the preferred candidate to succeed him as president.

"Peter Gordon is one of Australia's best known and respected lawyers and a man with a track record of success in whatever he gets involved in," Smorgon said.

"He is a man with great and innovative ideas looking at a fresh approach and who is going to add on to the base that has been built.

"We know we have got the right man and we have got a man whose got the track record, the credentials and the passion and love for this club to do a great job'".

Western Bulldogs president David Smorgon is confident coach Brendan McCartney can rebuild the club. Picture: Ellen Smith Source: Herald Sun

Gordon said he inherited a club in a much stronger position than when he handed over power to Smorgon in 1996 - "and of course it's in an exponentially better position than it was in 1989".

Gordon was encouraged by what he heard from AFL chairman Mike Fitzpatrick, CEO Andrew Demetriou and chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan during a meeting today.

"The irony of it was not lost on me that I was welcomed into the AFL headquarters by a management that not only values and recognises the Western Bulldogs football club franchise, but also its vital importance to the competition as a whole - in particular because of its roots and its work in the western suburbs of Melbourne,'' said Gordon, the director of Gordon Legal.

"And that was not a philosophy, frankly, that seemed to be a priority 25 years ago.

"In a sense we are greater western Melbourne and greater western Melbourne is as important to the future of the competition as (new franchise) Greater Western Sydney.''

Gordon said he wanted to play a central role in how the AFL dealt with the growing gap between rich and poor clubs.

Gordon will speak further with outspoken former player and now successful restaurateur Paul Dimattina in coming weeks about his bid for a seat on the board.

Dimattina had been an increasingly vocal critic of Smorgon in recent years, but Gordon said he came into the job with an open mind.

"All Bulldogs will be welcomed back to the kennel,'' Gordon said.

"And all Bulldogs will be asked, and in some ways expected, to contribute what they can.''

Western Bulldogs President David Smorgon (centre) with past presidents Nick Columb (left) and Peter Gordon. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Herald Sun

Smorgon will stand down from the board at the club's annual general meeting on December 20.

Bulldogs members will then be asked to vote Gordon on to the board, which would confirm his presidency.

A Bulldogs board committee, headed by outgoing Dogs director Ian Veal, has spent several months exploring succession options for the popular Smorgon.

The committee recently settled on the pairing of Gordon and Alberti, a recommendation approved by the board.

The quality of the candidates was enough to convince Smorgon that the time was right to step aside.

Gordon, a successful lawyer, became Bulldogs president in 1989 after leading the fight against a merger with Fitzroy.

His board stood aside for the Smorgon administration in 1996.

Smorgon is the second-longest serving president in the AFL behind Sydney Swans chairman Richard Colless.

 - with AAP

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Roos poised to keep Hansen

Kangaroos forward Lachlan Hansen is expected to re-sign at the Roos. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne football manager Donald McDonald expects key forward Lachie Hansen to re-sign with the club.

But ruckman Hamish McIntosh looks destined for a move as negotiations with Geelong enter their final stages.

"Lachie's keen to stay which is great… It's just a case of finalising the negotiations and hopefully we will be in a position to announce something shortly," McDonald told the Kangaroos website.

"Negotiations are continuing (McIntosh) and we are meeting them (today)… these things take time, but something could happen sooner rather than later on this."

Live chat: Ask our experts what will happen at the trade table

McDonald confirmed McIntosh's departure could open the door for Majak Daw to make his senior debut after three years on the rookie list.

But he would not rule out going after Gold Coast ruckman Tom Hickey despite the 21-year-old requesting a trade to St Kilda.

McDonald said small forward Matthew Campbell has requested a trade while there has been a "little bit" of interest for fringe player Cruize Garlett who plans on leaving Arden St to return home to Western Australia.

Meanwhile, the futures of forwards Ben McKinley, Aaron Edwards and Ben Warren hang in the balance with the club shelving their contracts until after the trade period.

"A lot of deals are being held up until the compensation picks are announced on Friday," McDonald said.

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Stars rejoice overruled bench cap

Brisbane's Simon Black wearing the substitute vest in the match against Richmond. The sub rule will remain the same in 2013. Picture: Darren England. Source: AdelaideNow

AFL stars including Matthew Pavlich and Gary Ablett have taken to Twitter to voice their satisfaction at the AFL Commission baulking at mooted interchange rule changes.

The league today revealed there would be no limit placed on rotations in 2013, but did not rule out implementing a cap the follwing season.

But the AFL has made changes to its ruck rules, with ruckmen now banned from making contact at stoppages.

The league also acted swiftly to concerns this year about players sliding in at opponents legs, declaring umpires would pay a free kick against players who make forceful contact below the knees.

The interchange cap of 80 will be trialled in the NAB Cup only next year.

"Credit where it's due... Well done to the AFL commish for leaving the interchange alone!" Geelong premiership star Andrew Mackie tweeted.

That tweet was given 22 retweets, including one from former teammate and Gold Coast captain Ablett.

Dockers skipper Matthew Pavlich tweeted: "The @AFL commission contains intelligent & stoic types. Tough to juggle stakeholders' views. Appear to have made sound decisions today."

Pavlich also retweeted AFL spokesman Patrick Keane, who revealed the 3-1 interchange system would remain unchanged next season.

The AFL Players' Association had strongly resisted the AFL tampering with the bench laws for the second time in three years.

Eddie McGuire today sensationally declared a cap on interchange rotations could drive players towards taking performance-enhancing drugs.

Clubs were hopeful that if the league insisted on change it would opt for a 3-2 policy, expanding the bench to five but including two substitutes.

While that strategy was not the preferred option, they are happy that no changes were made.
 

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AFL turns up heat on Swans' cap

The AFL will investigate cap concessions awarded to Sydney which allow the reigning premiers to lure big name players. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou has revealed the league will review the Sydney Swans' cost of living allowance that gives the club a salary cap edge on its rivals.

But Demetriou was quick to dismiss talk the review was linked to the reigning premiers 11th hour bid at securing Adelaide defector Kurt Tippett.

The Swans get an extra 9.8 per cent in their salary cap to help counter the costs associated with living in Australia's largest city.

"It was discussed at the [AFL] Commission yesterday and the commission did feel, not because of the Sydney Swans and the kneejerk reaction, that the last time we reviewed this was five years ago," Demetriou said.

"Maybe it is appropriate we collate more information, all the bureau of statistics information, get some experts involved, some third parties and get some more information."

"We'll bring it back to the commission to have a look at."

Tippett, 25, walked out on the Crows last month under the guise of wanting to return to his home state of Queensland.

But the home-sick key forward had a change of heart when the Swans tabled a lucrative deal for his services.

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LIVE: AFL trades chat

Collingwood's Chris Dawes wants a move to Melbourne. Source: Herald Sun

CAN Melbourne broker a deal to lure Chris Dawes from Collingwood? And where will free agent Clinton Young sign? Chat live with our experts from 11am.

THERE are two weeks of trade period left.

Names in the ilk of Kurt Tippett, Chris Dawes, Hamish McIntosh, Mitch Brown x2, Cam Pederson and Jamie Cripps are all eager to find new homes.

Today, Greater Western Sydney sealed the important signature of ruckman Jon Giles, with the big man penning a three-year deal.

Unwanted Port Adelaide midfielder David Rodan has reportedly met with several clubs about landing a third chance, with the explosive jet confident he has more to offer.

St Kilda ball carrier Farren Ray is no certainty to join the Dees, with the former Dog still having a contract in 2013.

Who does your club want to deal for and delist? Join our live AFL trades chat below as all 18 clubs look to enhance their lists ahead of the 2013 campaign.

AFL KEY DATES AHEAD:

October 19, 5pm - End of free agency period
October 26, 2pm - End of Trade Period
October 31, 2pm - List Lodgement One
November 1 - Commencement to delisted free agency period
November 13, 2pm - End to delisted free agency period
November 22 - AFL Draft, Gold Coast Convention Centre
December 11, 11am - AFL Pre-Season Draft.
December 11, 11.10am - AFL Rookie Draft.

JOIN OUR LIVE CHAT FROM 11am BELOW

AFL DRAFT ORDER - ROUNDS 1 AND 2

1. Greater Western Sydney
2. Greater Western Sydney
3. Greater Western Sydney
4. Melbourne (GWS compensation - Tom Scully)
5. Western Bulldogs
6. Western Bulldogs (GWS compensation - Callan Ward)
7. Port Adelaide
8. Brisbane Lions
9. Richmond
10. Essendon (father-son selection committed to Joe Daniher)
11. Carlton
12. Greater Western Sydney
13. Greater Western Sydney
14. North Melbourne
15. Geelong
16. Fremantle
17. Collingwood
18. Collingwood
19. Adelaide
20. Melbourne (GWS compensation - via Adelaide - Phil Davis)
21. Western Bulldogs
22. Sydney Swans
23. Brisbane Lions (GC compensation - Michael Rischitelli)
24. St Kilda
25. Gold Coast
26. Melbourne (father-son selection committed to Jack Viney)
27. Hawthorn
28. Port Adelaide
29. Richmond (GC compensation - via Port Adelaide - Nathan Krakouer)
30. Brisbane Lions
31. Richmond
32. Essendon
33. Carlton
34. St Kilda
35. North Melbourne
36. Geelong
37. Fremantle
38. West Coast
39. Collingwood
40. Adelaide
41. Western Bulldogs
42. Sydney Swans
 

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Suns zone in on Cameron

Clay Cameron will join the Suns through their zone drafting ability, just like Alex Sexton (pictured) did. Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

GOLD Coast has tapped into its zone recruiting allowances to snare a key position talent capable of performing at both ends of the ground.

The Suns today signed Clay Cameron, a highly-rated athlete which the baby club has already invested considerable time into developing.

Cameron, who won a rising star nomination playing for NEAFL club Mt Gravatt in 2011, battled osteitis pubis in 2010 - delaying his start in the big time.

Live chat: Ask our experts what will happen at the trade table

"Clay looks a real player, we have been thrilled with the way he has developed, and his football has continued to impress us," Suns list manager Scott Clayton said.

"He is quick and agile and can play at both ends of the ground. Clay is strong overhead, with and outstanding natural leap and clean hands."

The 191cm product was a prominent track and field athlete as a teenager but athletics and rugby union, which his father played, to pursue a career in footy.

"I can't wait to join start my AFL career, and what makes it even sweeter is being able to do it in Queensland," Cameron said.

The Suns have also signed 17-year-old Jack Martin, the hottest bottom-age draft prospect in the country, this off-season, but have lost Josh Caddy to Geelong.

Gold Coast could also offload ruckman Tom Hickey and powerful defender Josh Toy this trade period.

Hickey wants to move to St Kilda to be closer to his girlfriend, while Essendon-raised Toy has a one-year offer on the table from the Suns but has met with three Melbourne clubs.
 

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Contracted Ray could stay put

Melbourne is hoping to lure St Kilda midfielder Farren Ray to the club during this week's trade period. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

FARREN Ray could continue at St Kilda next season despite languishing in the VFL this year and fielding interest from aggressive trade player Melbourne.

The dashing wingman floated in and out of new coach Scott Watters' side this year, finishing with just 11 games, but remains contracted at Seaford in 2013.

Ray's manager Marty Pask today said as it stood "at the moment", Ray was expected to stay a Saint.

The former No. 4 draft pick was traded to St Kilda at the end of the 2008 season after falling out of the best 22 at the Western Bulldogs.

A quiet qualifying final sealed Ray's fate under then-Dogs coach Rodney Eade, but he rebounded strongly under Ross Lyon, adding a harder edge to his game.

Ray, 26, played 50 of a possible 51 games in 2009-10, including all three Grand Finals.

"Nothing has changed, he's contracted at St Kilda Football Club. That's how it remains at this point in time," Pask told the AFL's Trade Radio.

"I do at the moment (think he'll stay put), most definitely. He's got that one year to go for next season."

Dees coach Mark Neeld is believed to be hot on the ball carrier after already securing young guns Jack Viney, Dom Barry, Jesse Hogan and Geelong premiership veteran Shannon Byrnes.

They also won Chris Dawes' nomination as his preferred club after requesting a shift from Collingwood.

Pask said while Ray was often out of the Saints 22, he remained in their best 25 and with some key exits already he could expect greater opportunities next year.

Live chat: Ask our experts what will happen at the trade table

St Kilda lost the biggest free agency fish this month with star Brendon Goddard walking to Essendon as a restricted free agent.

It is also bracing to lose homesick midfielder Jamie Cripps, while the Saints remain confident of luring Gold Coast ruckman Tom Hickey, who wants to spend more time with his Melbourne-based girlfriend.
 

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