Isaac Heeney is set for a change in role next season, he will spend more time playing a midfield role in 2022 according to Sydney senior coach John Longmire.
With the Swans losing both George Hewett & Jordan Dawson in the off-season there are opportunities in the midfield available, Longmire outlined his plan for Heeney in an interview on Sportsday earlier this week.
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When Longmire was specifically asked if Heeney could see a 50/50, 60/40 or a 70/30 midfield/forward split in 2022 he replied:
“I think that he’s probably getting up towards that.. a bit more in the midfield now.””
“He got through this season quite well,”
“At the back end of the year he was training really well & able to play games out really well.”
“He naturally keeps himself in fantastic shape, so we’ll be playing him a bit more in the midfield this year.”
“We think he can still play in the midfield & push forward, probably be about 70/30 type split.” Longmire said.
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The Swans recently began their pre-season campaign, Longmire was also cautious at the length of time prior to the start of the 2022 H&A season.
“Once again it’s only the pre-season & we’ll use him where we need him, but we’d like to play him more in the midfield.” Longmire added.
Heeney averaged 15.9 Disposals, 5.7 Marks, 2.0 Tackles & 1.7 Goals from 21 games for Sydney in 2021.
Fantasy Impact: A move into more of a midfield role for Isaac Heeney would certainly provide an opportunity to increase his fantasy scoring output, he averaged 77.2pts from 21 games in 2021.
The available opportunities in the midfield & the positive outlook from John Longmire do align for Heeney, he was used at minimal centre bounces in 2021 so his 2022 role could be a mix of outside/inside midfield.
His role would be a critical watch during pre-season games, his fantasy scoring potential could easily exceed his 2021 output.
Heeney would be a strong consideration at Round 1 in season long fantasy, there will be more information available throughout his pre-season on his exact midfield role & potential centre bounce usage.
His expected ADP likely changes significantly in single season draft leagues, expect him to be taken well ahead of current expectations.
Source: John Longmire – Sydney Sportsday
Image credit: Sydney
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