Josh Jenkins’ firepower and David Mackay’s flexibility sealed AFL recalls for the Crows

ADELAIDE coach Don Pyke has given Josh Jenkins a licence to fire on return against Fremantle at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night.

Josh Jenkins during Adelaide’s round seven loss to North Melbourne Kangaroos at Blundstone Arena.

ADELAIDE coach Don Pyke wants Josh Jenkins to ‘strut his stuff’ in a monster forward line while David Mackay looms as insurance for Brodie Smith against Fremantle on Saturday night at Adelaide Oval.

Power forward Jenkins and half-back/wingman Mackay were recalled after being axed for Adelaide’s 80-point win against Brisbane at the Gabba last Saturday night.

Rookie Jordan Gallucci was a victim of the selection squeeze at West Lakes last night.

In-form Curtly Hampton is causing concern - sidelined indefinitely by an ankle injured against the Lions.

“He brought some great energy last week we were after so we thought get him back in,” said Pyke, praising Jenkins’ four-goal response for the Crows SANFL side against West Adelaide.

Having endured a debilitating rib injury in round two Pyke said form and condition were returning for the top ranked Crows.

“We know the quality he has got, capacity he has to perform at the level so we look forward to see him back strutting his stuff,” said Pyke.

Smith has been restricted to light duties this week due to leg soreness and has “work to do” convincing Pyke that he shouldn’t be rested for the first time this season.

Smith is central to Adelaide’s slingshot rebound with Rory Laird which - when curbed or pressured - leads to trouble for Pyke’s master plan.

Mackay offers Pyke options at the expense of Gallucci.

“David is an interesting one, we feel like his inclusion gives some more flexibility to play back and with his run through midfield,” said Pyke.

“We are looking at Fremantle’s side and feel his inclusion gives us greater flexibility.”

The inclusion of Jenkins leaves the Crows in danger of a top-heavy mix with Andy Otten retained in the competition’s most potent attack.

However, Pyke said revelation Hugh Greenwood - who booted three goals on debut against Brisbane - would revert to an inside midfield role.

“Hughy came in and played a little bit more forward than midfield.

The way we brought in Josh there is potential for Hughy to play more midfield minutes. We look forward to him playing as a genuine midfielder,” said Pyke.

Fremantle has moved to fifth spot with six wins in seven games but is without injured Aaron Sandilands, the league’s No.1 hit out to advantage ruckman.

Originally published as Josh Jenkins’ firepower and David Mackay’s flexibility sealed AFL recalls for the Crows