Lachie Whitfield wants to stay in Sydney, happy with carefree life compared to Melbourne
LACHIE Whitfield is carefree and relaxed in Sydney and wouldn’t have it any other way, set to snub any move back to Melbourne in the near future.
GWS
Don't miss out on the headlines from GWS. Followed categories will be added to My News.
DESPITE his six month ban from footy when in the care of GWS staff Lachie Whitfield has given a strong indication he will stay in Sydney’s west beyond the term of his current contract which expires at the end of 2018.
All the focus has been Josh Kelly’s future but Whitfield’s pedigree is obvious, he is a No.1 draft pick (2012) and at 22 is about to hit his prime.
On the open market Whitfield would draw similar attention to Kelly from Melbourne clubs. But returning to the city he grew up in looks highly unlikely given his recent experience.
FIRST WORDS: I’M TO BLAME: WHITFIELD BREAKS SILENCE
WHITFIELD SCANDAL: GIANTS TO LOSE FIRST-ROUND PICK
“We are building something here,” Whitfield told the Sunday Telegraph.
“I’ve got a lot of mates in Melbourne and they tell me the environment they’re living in each day. They go from being at the club to trying to live a quiet home life.
“We don’t have that hassle in Sydney. Our life is so simple and carefree. I wouldn’t know how to deal with it, I’m so happy with life in Sydney and so used to it. I wouldn’t know how to deal with it, Melbourne doesn’t interest me so much yet.
Whitfield hasn’t missed a beat in his return to football, he is averaging more than 27 disposals per game and has goaled in each of the Giants’ last three matches.”
Whitfield spoke for the first time about his six month ban for evading a drug test in May 2015. Former Giants football manager Graeme Allan and Welfare manager Craig Lambert were given 12 months suspensions for their part in the incident.
“I’ve learned to be independent and make my decisions for myself,” Whitfield said.
“I learned how to train away from the footy club. I’ve learned to trust your family and friends because they will always have your back.”
GWS currently sit in second spot on the ladder and are right in the hunt for their first flag.
I might go back one day when I’m 35-40 and done with footy.”
Lions fears confirmed after young Giant arrives
Aaron Cadman has arrived – and the rest of the competition is on notice. But what will the league think of Brisbane after another day of wasted opportunities and a shattering injury blow?
‘Big O’ must prove his fitness in reserves
While two players won’t be required to return for the Brisbane Lions via the reserves following lengthy lay-offs, Oscar McInerney will play in the club’s VFL team.