SCOTT Thompson believes he can add value to Don Pyke’s midfield for a staggering 17th AFL season, but firing in September is the veteran’s consuming passion.
The Advertiser on Wednesday revealed Thompson would begin contract talks this week to fulfil a deep desire to remain at West Lakes.
Thompson, a 305-game Crows legend, has unfinished business having joined Adelaide ahead of the 2005 season.
“I am in a position where I am pretty keen to play on next year and still feel like I have a bit to give,” Thompson said.
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READ NOWAdelaide was overwhelmed by West Coast in last Friday night’s round-23 clash at Adelaide Oval. Thompson, 33, was among a limited Crows contingent that left the field without colours lowered.
“I still like to think I prepare myself in the best possible way,” said Thompson, who collected 24 touches in the 29-point loss to West Coast.
A protracted collective bargaining agreement process between the players union and the AFL is providing uncertainty over salary cap room.
Players in the twilight of their careers must wait until clubs crunch the numbers and offer deals for 2017. It’s a process Thompson will let “play out”.
Having debuted in 2001 with Melbourne, Thompson knows this campaign could be his best chance to lift a premiership. His future plans, though, are taking a back seat ahead of Saturday week’s elimination final against North Melbourne.
“My sole focus is on winning finals,” Thompson said.
“You have to take your chance, give it your best shot in a fortnight.”
Thompson is relishing the presence of premier on-baller Rory Sloane after serving a one-match suspension for rough contact on Port Adelaide’s Brad Ebert in Showdown 41. Having recovered from concussion incurred against Port, Brodie Smith’s half-back rebound will also be pivotal as Adelaide confronts a refreshed North Melbourne side. The Roos are set on winning for departing quartet Brent Harvey, Michael Firrito, Drew Petrie and Nick Dal Santo.
However, the Crows will be in a world of trouble if relying on two returning stars to make the difference in a cut-throat final, Thompson noted.
“We are looking forward to getting those two players out there but we don’t rely on a couple of players,” he said.