Dumped dog Lukas Webb to train with Carlton to clinch AFL lifeline
Injury curtailed his final two seasons at the Bulldogs, but this delisted hard nut may get a second chance at Carlton – but he will have to prove himself in the Blues’ upcoming practice games.
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Former Western Bulldog Lukas Webb will attempt to shine in Carlton’s practice match games to secure the Blues’ last list spot.
Webb, 23, is auditioning with the Blues after a horror run of injuries, including a fractured neck and leg, put an end to his time at the kennel.
The exciting utility, who has been back in full training at Carlton for several weeks, is considered one of the best players in the VFL.
But there are no guarantees the Blues will take him by the March 15 supplemental selection period deadline, with the club also considering keeping a spot open for a mid-season draft selection.
Webb’s performances in Carlton’s practice match games including a newly-announced bushfire fundraiser against Collingwood on Thursday February 20 at Ikon Park from 4pm could be crucial to his chances.
But his versatility to play in each third of the ground and add some hardness in the forward half, in particular, appeals to the Blues.
Carlton wanted to beef-up its small forward stocks in the trade period but missed out on top target Tom Papley from Sydney Swans.
However, David Teague’s men have been thrilled with Jack Martin’s first pre-season at Ikon Park after landing the talented forward from Gold Coast in the pre-season draft for nothing.
In 2018, Webb rated above average for tackles and pressure acts in his five games.
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He has played 24 matches in five seasons and suffered a horrendous fractured neck in July 2018, before snapping his leg at training in May last year.
The Blues will ramp up their intra-club games in coming weeks before taking on Collingwood and then Fremantle (February 29) and Brisbane (March 8) in the pre-season series.
Last year’s mid-season draft pick-up Josh Deluca was training with the Blues before leaving to sign with Box Hill in the VFL.
Carlton’s pre-season schedule:
Thu, Feb 20 v Collingwood (Ikon Park) Bushfire fundraiser
Sat, Feb 29 v Fremantle (Mandurah)
Sun, Mar 8 v Brisbane (Ikon Park)
Originally published as Dumped dog Lukas Webb to train with Carlton to clinch AFL lifeline