It's only an empty threat if we don't mean it
Fair point. I guess rather than "empty" what I mean is:
- Of course the PSD is on the table right from the outset. Everyone around the trade table knows that is the nuclear option.
- I wouldn't pull the trigger on that "threat" unless and until the negotiations have stalled at an unreasonably low level. Which I don't think will happen.
- What might happen is that negotiations stall at an "OK, but not great" level (for us), at which time we have to decide whether to pull the PSD trigger - and as you say, it's an empty threat unless we mean it - unless we stand up from the table and don't blink.
- And if that trigger is pulled - I guess that's where my comments come in: How seriously would Collingwood, for example, take such a threat? Would they genuinely be concerned that Brisbane / Gold Coast / Freo would take him? Yes, they might be concerned about North or Carlton.
I just don't think the "if this trade doesn't work you're off to Brisbane, Jake" is something that makes sense as a "threat". IMO "if this trade doesn't work" he will end up at a Melbourne club, and on the $ that he wants.
I think the club is on a hiding to nothing here from the supporters, because - IMO - it is unlikely that we'll be able to do a deal that is a clear "Win" with a capital "W" for us. Just won't happen. And I don't think the club should go "stuff it, it's PSD for you" when there is a decent, if not outstanding, deal on offer. But a lot of supporters might think that.