Brendon Goddard reveals Carlton offered him an AFL lifeline

Former St Kilda and Essendon superstar Brendon Goddard has revealed Carlton was prepared to throw him an AFL lifeline as his career and off-field contribution was recognised by the AFLPA.

Patrick Dangerfield presents Brendon Goddard with the Madden Medal. Picture: Getty Images

Former St Kilda and Essendon superstar Brendon Goddard has revealed Carlton was prepared to throw him an AFL lifeline last month.

Goddard, who has taken out the Madden Medal for his stellar career and off-field contribution, retired last year after he wasn’t offered a new contract by Essendon.

The AFL players’ Association award is given to the recently retired player who best demonstrates on-field excellence, personal development and growth and community spirit.

FAMILY TIES: WHY RIOLI WANTS TO STAY A TIGER

CONTRACT: LACHIE TO FIGHT FOR SPOT BEFORE TALKS

Goddard said the Blues showed some interest in adding him under the new supplementary selection rules.

The Blues lost Sam Docherty to another knee reconstruction in December and Tom Bugg to a shock retirement in the new year, spiking their interest.

But Goddard said he was unconvinced on the move.

“It was post-January, so it wasn’t when everyone was (speculating about it in December),” Goddard said.

“I was struggling to get my head around it after not doing much for three or four months and putting on a bit of weight and not training, just because I knew I didn’t have to.

“It wasn’t until I got back from overseas that someone made me aware about the new rule that you can be signed up until March 15.

“I actually thought, ‘S---, I’d better get myself somewhat fit’. But that kind of fizzled out anyway.”

Brendon Goddard, who was awarded the Madden Medal, says he was sounded out by the Blues. Picture: Getty Images

Goddard, whose fiery temperament sometimes caused headlines, played 334 games, won Essendon’s 2013 best and fairest and was twice crowned All-Australian, before retiring at the end of last season.

He also studied and was involved in several charitable causes, including Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision, the Purple Bombers and the Sacred Heart Mission.

“To win an award that has been voted on by your peers is a huge honour,” Goddard said.

“I gave everything I had to the sport and set incredibly high standards of myself and my teammates and that extended off the field as well.

“To be alongside the likes of Nick Riewoldt, Matthew Pavlich, Chris Judd and Lenny Hayes as a Madden Medal winner is truly humbling, not to mention being nominated with the other four individuals tonight – they’re all stars in their own right.”

Goddard claimed the award ahead of other Madden Medal nominees Lee Spurr, Bernie Vince, Cyril Rioli and Eric Mackenzie.