Footscray coach backs VFL captain Josh Prudden to return to AFL football after injury-riddled stint

Footscray coach Daniel Giansiracusa believes VFL captain Josh Prudden can still play AFL football after the star midfielder’s career was cut short by injury.

Josh Prudden celebrates a goal.

Footscray coach Daniel Giansiracusa believes captain Josh Prudden can still play AFL football.

The star midfielder was named standalone VFL skipper this week after sharing leadership duties with Angus Monfries in 2018.

Injuries curtailed Prudden’s AFL career with the Western Bulldogs, playing just four games after being picked at No.50 in the 2012 national draft.

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However, Prudden has played 15 and 14 games in the past two seasons and Giansiracusa believes he deserves another chance.

“I played with him as a teammate and he was extremely unlucky not to have a longer AFL career,” he said.

“If he can get a clean run with his body there’s no reason why he couldn’t be on an AFL list.”

Josh Prudden in action for the Western Bulldogs in 2016. Pic: Michael Klein

The Dogs have had success in developing mature-age players into draftable talent with Ben Long, Mitch Hannan, Billy Gowers and Will Hayes drafted in the past three years.

Giansiracusa was glowing in his recommendation of Prudden as captain.

“He’s just a great person, Pruds. There’s was no hesitation making him standalone captain,” he said.

“Leads with action, not overly talkative, but I think everyone that plays with him enjoys it and wants to run out there with him because they know he’s got their back.

“It’s a great honour for him and looking forward to him progressing his leadership as the year goes on.”

Josh Wallis, Liam Nash and Bradley Olsson will form the Bulldogs’ leadership group under Prudden after developing their leadership skills over the pre-season.

Prudden will lead the team out for the first time in the VFL season-opener against Sandringham at Whitten Oval on Friday, April 5.

“We have a talented group of players who are extremely motivated to achieve success in 2019 and beyond, so I’m incredibly grateful to be able to play alongside our group this season,” he told the club website.

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