Former Crow Andrew McLeod thinks Shaun Edwards has huge potential

ANDREW McLeod thinks his old club may have missed a hidden gem in Greater Western Sydney defender Shaun Edwards.

ADELAIDE has missed out on Greater Western Sydney defender Shaun Edwards - and a former Crows great thinks his old club may have missed a hidden gem.

Norm Smith Medallist Andrew McLeod was pushing the case for Adelaide to strike a trade for the teenager who was caught in a bidding duel between the Crows and Essendon.

But the Bombers won the day, striking a deal with GWS on Tuesday afternoon that will see Edwards and Giants teammate Kurt Aylett head to Windy Hill in exchange for pick 48 - which was to be the Bombers' first selection in this year's national draft.

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McLeod is in Ireland working with Edwards as part of Australia's International Rules team.

"I sent (Crows list manager) David Noble a text after the game (on Saturday) saying we have to get this kid," said McLeod on radio FIVEaa.

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"He can play. He's a good size. He carries the ball. He has beautiful skills. He is lightning quick. Having Shaun coming off the half-back flank for the Crows would be amazing."

Adelaide, at pick 46, was thought to be leading the race for Edwards by having a third-round draft pick two steps before Essendon.

But the Bombers struck first - and perhaps struck gold - by agreeing to terms with the Giants.