Travis Cloke says there was no infighting at the Western Bulldogs during the 2017 season

RECENTLY retired Travis Cloke has rubbished suggestions the Western Bulldogs’ 2017 campaign was derailed because of infighting among the playing group.

Travis Cloke celebrates his first goal as a Bulldog. Picture: Michael Klein

TRAVIS Cloke has rubbished suggestions the Western Bulldogs’ 2017 campaign was derailed because of infighting among the playing group.

After winning the premiership in 2016, the Bulldogs battled through the season, eventually finishing 10th on the ladder.

There was constant speculation throughout the year that the playing group wasn’t getting along, just months after celebrating a premiership together.

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Once the season finished, forward and former No. 5 draft pick Jake Stringer was told he would be put up for trade and has since joined Essendon.

“I was quite surprised when I read some of that during the back half of the year and also during the trade period when it was more spoken about,” Cloke said on SEN.

It was a tough year for the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Getty Images

“That bunch of blokes, I’ve never seen a bunch closer than that.

“A lot of the boys live together so they have that bond together. I think a lot of it was rubbish. I don’t think there was a lot of infighting. I never saw it.”

Cloke announced his retirement last week, adding his name to an off-season facelift at Whitten Oval.

Also retiring were veterans Bob Murphy and Matthew Boyd while Stewart Crameri was delisted.

The Dogs picked up free agent Jackson Trengove from Port Adelaide and also traded in Hayden Crozier (Fremantle) and Josh Schache (Brisbane).

Cloke was confident the club would bounce back quickly from its disappointing 2017.

“I guess if any team doesn’t back it up and almost be a contender the next year after a premiership, there is that question of a premiership hangover,” Cloke said.

“The boys came back in fantastic condition to start pre-season last year.

“I think the Doggies are on the right track still. I think they probably won a premiership before their time which is sometimes a bonus but I think they are going to be a massive threat in the coming years.”