Tom Papley’s unhappiness in Sydney behind Carlton trade request
Tom Papley has requested a trade to Carlton but is open to a move to another Melbourne-based club as the reason for his desperation to get out of Sydney is revealed.
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Tom Papley was so unhappy in Sydney last season he questioned whether he wanted to keep playing the game.
Papley’s desperation to force a trade to a Melbourne-based club is underpinned by a desire to get out of Australia’s biggest city and a family health concern.
The Herald Sun can reveal the goalsneak’s blossoming form for the Swans masked a troubled off-field lifestyle.
Papley was unhappy with his living arrangements in the Harbour City and felt isolated at times.
It’s understood the novelty of moving from small-town Bunyip to the big city has worn off for Papley.
His girlfriend lives in Melbourne and his family and young brother, who he remains very close with, remain in Gippsland. The family health concern is a deeply private one.
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Papley has no issues with the Swans, has respect for coach John Longmire and is currently holidaying with teammates overseas.
Footy was his release in 2019 and he was excellent, kicking 37.28 for a side that missed finals.
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The Swans, for their part, have vowed to solve Papley’s off-field concerns and are resolute in their determination not to trade a player contracted until the end of 2023.
Carlton is desperate to secure him and Papley remains in the dark as to whether Sydney will relent.
The small forward is very close friends with Blues defender Nic Newman and Alex Johnson, who plays VFL for the affiliated Northern Blues.
Originally published as Tom Papley’s unhappiness in Sydney behind Carlton trade request