Isaac Heeney has provided an update on his role for the 2022 season, he confirmed that there would be an increase in midfield usage this week.
His ability to play forward will still remain a strong area of his game.
“Maybe a bit more midfield time would be good this year,”
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“Then I can get in & amongst it, then obviously slide forward & try & have an impact on the scoreboard too.”
“Wherever Horse (John Longmire) wants to play me, but I think that would be nice.” Heeney said.
Senior coach John Longmire forecast more time spent in the midfield for Heeney when pre-season began.
“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.
Heeney averaged 15.9 Disposals, 5.7 Marks, 2.0 Tackles & 1.7 Goals from 21 games for Sydney in 2021.
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Fantasy Impact: Isaac Heeney averaged 77.2pts from 21 games in 2021, he scored a season high 132pts in Round 19 against Fremantle.
The increase in midfield usage for Heeney appears to be real, Swans senior coach John Longmire did mention a 70% midfield/30% forward split but pre-season games should be a good indicator to what level he will play in the middle of the ground.
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Many mids require a secondary position in order to maintain a strong rotation, Heeney at best likely comes in 4th at centre bounces behind Luke Parker, Josh Kennedy & Callum Mills if all remain healthy.
There is also the possibility he starts at a high rate in the forward line then moves instantly into the midfield group with the ball in play.
Heeney is a consideration for season long fantasy at Round 1, pre-season games are a must watch in order to determine his potential upside in scoring.
He is likely a target well ahead of expected ADP in single season draft leagues.
