The player managers have been hitting the airwaves today, here is some of what they had to say.

Jake Stringer

Jake Stringer’s player manager has told NAB AFL Trade Radio he expects his client to reveal his preferred Club ‘sooner rather than later’.

Robbie D’Orazio said Essendon and Geelong are leading the race for the young forward.

“We’ve met with Essendon again today and we’ve got a decision to make which shouldn’t be too long,” he said.

“It’s been well reported that Geelong and Essendon are the two clubs leading the race, we have met with others but those are the two we’ve identified as the leading two.

“Two years ago Jake Stringer could’ve been in the top five players in the competition, obviously it hasn’t gone that way in the last two years.

“He was the leading goal kicker in their premiership year though, he kicked 42 goals and if a bad year is 40 goals you’d probably take it.

“Jake is looking for leadership on and off the ground, a strong network that is already behind him and being able to collaborate that with the Club that he chooses, a strong Coach and then some mentors around him.

“Stringer is a star of the competition and whoever gets him I think will be very happy.”

Aaron Francis

Aaron Francis’ Manager has told NAB AFL Trade Radio he expects the talented Bomber to remain at the Club. 

The number six pick from the 2015 National Draft is contracted until the end of 2019.

He’s played five senior games in his first two seasons at AFL level and has also produced a string of eye-catching displays in the VFL.

Manager, Michael Doughty, isn’t surprised by the speculation but said he doesn’t expect any deal involving Francis to eventuate during the trade period.

“Essendon won’t do a deal unless it benefits them so I’d suggest he’d be at Essendon next year,” Doughty told NAB AFL Trade Radio.

“He’s suffered from a bit of home sickness so there’s been a bit of talk, but it’s more unlikely than likely that anything would happen there with Aaron.

“He’s had a disappointing first two years no doubt and obviously with that comes pressure.

“He’s had a few issues with his body and getting himself to a state where he’s able to play at the senior level.”

Devon Smith 

The manager of GWS midfielder Devon Smith has told NAB AFL Trade Radio, Essendon is one of four clubs in the mix for his client’s services.

Smith has played 109 games for the Giants since making his debut in 2012.

Manager Ned Guy said a decision on a preferred club is imminent.

‘We’re hoping by the end of this week, if not early next week so we can move pretty quickly once we know what direction he wants to take,” Guy said.

“A big (factor) for Devon is player management and how the club manages rehab, he’s just assessing everything in the club as a whole.”