From the Border Mail
ANDREW Lovett could be a shock starter for North Albury on Sunday. The former Essendon livewire, sacked by St Kilda without playing a game in 2010, is in talks with the Hoppers about playing at Bunton Park this year.
North Albury coach Jason Akermanis, who won’t play in this week’s Easter Sunday clash with Myrtleford, said a deal with the 2005 Anzac Day medallist was no certainty but a definite possibility.
And it could happen as soon as today.
“He’s certainly available and keen to come,” Akermanis revealed in a bombshell yesterday.
“We could have him this week if all goes well in the next 24 hours.
“But it’s all about doing a deal that works for both parties and getting it sorted.
“We’ve made it clear to him that if you’re committing to the club you’re committing for the year.
“He’s certainly welcome but it’s got to be best for both parties.”
Lovett’s arrival would cap off one of the biggest off-seasons by a club in Ovens and Murray history.
North Albury, which won the wooden spoon last season, has since added former AFL stars Akermanis and Jason Gram, as well as two-time Strang medallist Adam Prior.
While he was more than happy for Lovett, 30, to jump on board, Akermanis said signing a ruckman was still the club’s most pressing concern.
Former best and fairest winner Ash Eames was in the picture but looks all but certain to remain in Melbourne.
“We really need a ruckman. That’s our priority and we’re still after one,” Akermanis said.
In what shapes as a blow to the gate at McNamara Reserve on Sunday, the Brownlow medallist confirmed he would not be taking to the field against the Saints.
But Akermanis said the Hoppers would otherwise be “pretty much full strength”.
“That was the deal,” he said.
“I don’t think I’ll play a lot of away games.
“I’m 36 now.”
But Gram will play.
Meanwhile, Myrtleford stalwart Luke Chapman will play game 200 for the Saints on Sunday.
