Essendon will keep trying Jake Carlisle in attack, despite his outstanding defensive role in Saturday night's big AFL win over Richmond.
While the Dreamtime At The 'G match was probably more a reflection on how badly Richmond are going, it was still a significant boost for Essendon in a game they had to win.
It was also the best game so far this season from Carlisle, who has struggled as a key forward.
Carlisle was outstanding in defence last year, but coach Mark Thompson has been keen to use him at the other end of the ground.
Michael Hurley's late withdrawal with a back injury gave Carlisle the chance to play down back again in the 50-point win over Richmond.
Thompson said they would continue to use Carlisle in attack when needed.
And he made it clear it would Essendon's decision alone.
"We know he can play down back and if we need if down back we'll play him there," Thompson said.
"And if we need him forward, we'll play him forward.
"I knew his form would come round - he's a good player, we all know that.
"What I am not going to do is get influenced by public perception - I'm going to do what I think is right and what the coaching group thinks is right. And we know better than most."
Thompson also laughed off speculation a few weeks ago that there were problems between him and Carlisle.
"It's an absolute beat-up," Thompson said.
"He comes into my office more than anyone, desperate to stay in the side. And I like him."
Another defender who impressed against Richmond was 39-year-old Dustin Fletcher, who Thompson said was close to best afield.
Thompson would love Fletcher to keep playing next season.
"It would be good to see a 40-year-old running around playing AFL footy - give a lot of people hope," he said.
Thompson appeared to have a slip of the tongue in a post-match interview when he seemed to say he would not be at the club next year.
He later said what he meant was that James Hird would return as senior coach after his 12-month suspension.
"I meant I wouldn't be ... senior coach, because we know Hirdy is coming back," he said.
Asked about his future beyond this season, Thompson said: "I don't know, to be honest - all I know is I'm coach this year and I'm doing my best."
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