Schroder not far away
Matthew Knights says it's difficult for players like Jordan Schroder to push their way through to AFL level
Geelong VFL coach, Matthew Knights, says Geelong’s youngster Jordan Schroder still has things to tick off before he receives an AFL call up despite his sound performance on Punt Road.
“I think Jordan like many young players have still got parts of their game that definitely need to improve,” Knights told Cats TV.
Delivering 26 touches and 10 clearances, Schroder came away with a best on ground performance against the Tigers, who regrettably took the win by a hefty margin.
Unfortunately such a show, as Knights states, can’t be exchanged for a ticket into the AFL due to the current quality of the senior playing group.
“It’s a pretty tough midfield to crack in AFL and the team has been playing so well this season that Jordan hasn’t been able to get a spot yet,” Knights said.
However, Knights still believes his VFL performance so far demonstrates that he’ll be prepared for the AFL battlefields when his time comes.
“It’s really good that his form is consistent and he’s playing at a really high level and I’ve got no doubt that when he does get the opportunity he’ll perform very well, none of us exactly know when that opportunity may come but he’s done it pretty well in the VFL this year."
This week the Cats will head up the highway to take on Williamstown, which is predicted to be another heated challenge.
“They’ve got a little bit better as the year has gone on with their stand-alone team… and it’s a really pivotal game really,” Knights said.
Hear more from Matthew Knights by clicking on the video above.