I agree and think we should be promoting this guy into the team. I am still a little perplexed as to why he was moved forward in the first place. His best junior footy was as a back and his form at the end of last year there was terrific. I just wonder whether it was done bc we had Moore moving back there and then a heap of options like Goldsack, Dunn, Howe etc so it was decided to move him forward. If Moore were to go then I wonder if we would move him back. Does my head in a bit!
Pie 4 Life do you have a view?
I reckon there were two factors at play in McLarty's move forward. One, as you mention, was Moores move back created a void forward. I also reckon they wanted to see what he could do forward. If he did well then that's a big list need filled potentially. If he didn't they could always shift him back again having broadened his development.
The thing that has played against McLarty's selection is a combination of bad luck and a strict selection policy. This year we have consistently brought players into the side to play roles they have been doing at VFL level. We haven't seen players brought up from the VFL into a different AFL role. Even Mihocek had split his time forward and back at VFL level. I reckon, and i'm guessing here, that this selection approach came out of the review as it is different from past seasons.
When a forward role finally presented itself with Reids injury; McLarty had at the same time hurt his ankle. Mihocek was selected and cemented his spot. He never looked back.
I don't think it's a lack of faith from the coaches; just a combination of bad luck, bad timing and a change in selection policy.
I'd be switching McLarty back next season because that is where his best footy has been played. If we don't trade in any ready made key position players I would earmark him in preseason for Dunns role. Until Dunn makes it back. See what he can do.