Jack Ziebell rubbishes talk of a North Melbourne rebuild after farewelling veteran stars

DEFIANT North Melbourne vice-captain Jack Ziebell has rubbished talk of the Kangaroos being in total rebuild mode after axing its four star veterans.

Jack Ziebell in action for North Melbourne. Picture: Michael Klein

DEFIANT North Melbourne vice-captain Jack Ziebell has rubbished talk of the Kangaroos being in total rebuild mode.

Ziebell, 25, said changes to the list and leadership at Arden St would excite and inspire the Roos during the pre-season.

“People talk about rebuilds, I don’t see that at all,” Ziebell told the Herald Sun.

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“I see we’re going to be very competitive, we can’t wait to improve in the pre-season. Youth brings excitement and excitement you know what that brings (success).

“We can’t wait (for next season). It’s an exciting period, you look at the Bulldogs, you don’t necessarily have to have the best team on paper to win a premiership.

“Although it was a disappointing finish for the boys it’s going to drive us in the pre-season, can’t wait to start next pre-season.

Jack Ziebell in action during the elimination final loss to Adelaide. Picture: Michael Klein

“We’re looking forward to getting in training and getting stuck into it.”

The Roos farewelled stalwarts Brent Harvey, Drew Petrie, Nick Dal Santo and Michael Firrito on Friday night, while captain Andrew Swallow stood down after five years at the helm.

“It’s a bit sad to see four greats of the game go out, but at the same time, with that, it brings a great opportunity for the younger guys to come through,” Ziebell said.

“We all understand how football works and sometimes it’s ruthless and those guys’ legacy will never be questioned.

“What they’ve done for our footy club is absolutely outstanding. They’ll be sadly missed but the opportunity it brings is really exciting.”

A decision on the next captain will be made next year with Ziebell, runner-up in North’s best and fairest, a major player for the top job.

Jack Ziebell is the likely successor to Andrew Swallow. Picture: Michael Klein

Ziebell said it would be a “pleasure” to captain the club if the opportunity arises.

“It would be a great honour to captain the club, but at the same time a title doesn’t change the way you act,” the midfield bull said.

“I’ll play my footy the best I can and try and lead by example, and help my teammates improve, that’s how we’re going to win games of footy next year, it’s by getting better.”

Ziebell said Swallow would be a valuable resource for the next captain.

“He’s going to give that next person, whoever that is, some great advice and great help along the way,” Ziebell said.

“We’ve got some great leaders at our footy club and it’s an exciting period for the club.”

Originally published as Jack Ziebell rubbishes talk of a North Melbourne rebuild after farewelling veteran stars