Michael Hibberd would be a ‘big asset’ for Melbourne, says coach-in-waiting Simon Goodwin

MELBOURNE coach-in-waiting Simon Goodwin says banned Bombers’ defender Michael Hibberd would be quality pick-up for the Demons.

AFL Round 9 — Richmond v Essendon at MCG. Michael Hibberd under pressure from Jack Riewoldt. 30th May 2015. Picture: Colleen Petch.

MELBOURNE coach-in-waiting Simon Goodwin says banned Bombers’ defender Michael Hibberd would be quality pick-up for the Demons.

Hibberd has informed Essendon he wants a trade at season’s end and is widely expected to join Melbourne in October’s exchange period.

“We will have those discussions at the end of the year and if he fits and he wants to come and he wants to be a part of it, then yeah, he would be a big asset for us,” Goodwin said.

“We have always said a long the way we would have some interest in him once he has made his decision.”

Hibberd, 26 could help replace Heritier Lumumba on a half back flank at Melbourne, alongside young running machine Jayden Hunt.

Michael Hibberd has been linked to the Demons. Picture: Michael Klein

The futures of veteran Demons’ defenders Colin Garland and Lynden Dunn are uncertain.

Goodwin and Hibberd have shared a close friendship since the pair were at Tullamarine together.

The two friends are known to catch up monthly.

But the Demons and Bombers are set for some crucial talks at the trade table as debate rages about Hibberd’s worth.

Essendon last year received pick No.25 in return for midfielder Jake Melksham and is likely to seek a more attractive return as compensation for Hibberd.

Melbourne’s first pick in this year’s draft is currently 27.

Goodwin said he had a high opinion of the tough running defender.

“I’ve obviously coached him (Hibberd) at Essendon, so I rate him extremely highly,” Goodwin said on Triple M.

“He’s a quality backman who kicks the ball well and he is tough and brave and goes (at the ball) when it is his turn, so he has got a lot of important elements that a lot of clubs would like.”

Hibberd has been on an overseas holiday during his suspension but has recently returned to Melbourne and has begun training in preparation for his return to football next season.

Originally published as Michael Hibberd would be a ‘big asset’ for Melbourne, says coach-in-waiting Simon Goodwin