Tim English is set to see increased time at the ruck position.
Western Bulldogs senior coach Luke Beveridge has recently highlighted the want for the 24 year old to be used at the No.1 ruck position, however he also acknowledges that the unavailability of taller/key type players will provide volatility in roles this season.
The want to provide support for Aaron Naughton is high, Beveridge also has repeatedly said that Jamarra Ugle-Hagan needs more time to develop which does provide some uncertainty in certain roles.
Beveridge spoke with SEN this week and provided insight that will impact strategy and team selection this season or until such time as there is full availability in taller/key type players.
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“We’ve still got some uncertainly in particular who is going to play in our key position areas and who’s going to spend the most time in the ruck, that’s not an ideal space to be in to be honest.”
“We’ve had some injuries through our key forward and key back stocks, now we’ve got to work out what the balance is with Tim, Stefan (Martin) and Jordon Sweet from a ruck point of view and how we can get an advantage tactically over the opposition.”
“There’s no doubt that Tim will, we want Tim to play in the ruck but Tim will be forward here and there as well.” he said.
Beveridge also said there would be an impact on mids as well, Marcus Bontempelli could be one to be used as an option forward at times but he was adamant Josh Dunkley will be used through the midfield.
GAME DAY LIVE on Twitter @aflratings_Live “Our taller mids will spend some periods forward, obviously Marcus (Bontempelli) can compete in the air, Dunks (Josh Dunkley) is only really scratching the surface with his capabilities but he’s really important to us in the midfield area.”
Source: SEN
Image: Western Bulldogs
Fantasy Impact: There’s plenty to dissect from Luke Beveridge, firstly his want to play Tim English as No.1 ruck is strong but it needs to be acknowledged there could be some type of volatility due to the unavailability of taller/key type players.
Stefan Martin is active and available to play which already limits the ceiling for English,
English can score at a decent rate when used as a solo ruck.
Marcus Bontempelli it appears will be used forward at times, this does provide opportunities in the midfield when he moves forward.
Josh Dunkley should see strong midfield usage this season, he is also currently out of contract at the end of this year.
Luke Beveridge is not a coach that will roll the same team out week in week out with no changes in specific roles to restrict opposition impact, there needs to be an expectation of adjustments throughout the year.
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Tim English is a consideration in season long fantasy, his previous scoring rate has suggested there is potential but his starting salary is not a bargain.
He’s worth moving up several places in single season draft leagues.
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