Jack Watts still has some work to do to convince coach Mark Neeld he deserves a place in Melbourne’s AFL season-opener on Saturday.
Neeld said he couldn’t give a definitive answer on whether the underperforming forward has done enough in two VFL practice matches to demand a place in Saturday’s round-one match against Brisbane.
Watts has been criticised for a lacklustre pre-season and was dropped to the VFL after poor NAB Cup form.
The 2008 No.1 draft pick was even accused by former Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse earlier this month of lacking the ambition to be a top-ranked footballer.
Watts responded by saying he’s only interested in Neeld’s opinion.
But the new coach still isn’t totally convinced.
“I thought he played OK in the VFL, so he’s certainly given himself a chance to be selected,” Neeld said on Wednesday.
“We’ve got match committee after training today and he’s done enough to be in the discussion to play.
“I just need to be convinced in my own mind that that’s the right way to go.
“I don’t know how he does that between now and match committee. That’s for me to think about while they’re training.”
While Watts was still on shaky ground, Neeld said co-captain Jack Grimes has overcome a shoulder injury and will be fit to play on Saturday.
Grimes played strongly for three quarters for Casey before being taken out of the game and will lead the Demons onto the MCG.
Upgraded rookie James Magner is in line for a debut after a solid pre-season and NAB Cup from the midfielder.
“He’ll certainly be in and around the mark,” Neeld said.
“It’s a big decision to promote a rookie to the primary list and, when you do that, you’re probably thinking very strongly he might play.”
Neeld also said Liam Jurrah was still with the rehab group as he recovers from a wrist injury and was still a month away.