At North Melbourne, former college basketballer Eric Wallace is on the list and is developing at a rate of knots and Mike Pyke played rugby union before claiming a premiership with the Swans in 2012.
But what if you could give the football skills and game knowledge of a current AFL superstar to an elite athlete from an overseas league or sport? Who would be the best candidate and have the most potential?
Let’s consider the players in the English Premier League.
Here’s the question: If you could transfer Daniel Wells’ football skills and game knowledge into an EPL player past or present, who would you choose?
Previously: Making a superstar: NBA
Goalkeepers would get a head start on outfield players because their ability to grab the round ball in mid-air makes them more valuable.
Simon Mignolet has arguably been the form goalkeeper of the current EPL season, making the second most saves and a large reason for Liverpool’s successful start.
His ability to read the play and make the right decision would naturally transfer to the defensive half of the ground. At 193 centimetres, Mignolet would shape as an ideal third tall defender with Wells’ skills.
Across the defensive line on the soccer field, Leighton Baines from Everton is a likely type. One of the best left-backs in the league, his fitness would not be a worry considering he spends 90 minutes running up and down the side of the field without an issue.
He is also regarded as a leader which would be important for any squad. However his height, at just 170 centimetres, could be a detractor.
In the middle of the ground, Frank Lampard is always prominent for Chelsea. Due to his age (35), he would be a short-term pick-up but he could be a line-breaking midfielder. The one downside would be a potential lack of fitness but it’s mitigated by his frame being able to hold up to the physicality of AFL.
Looking at strikers, Arsenal front man Olivier Giroud fits the prototype of a successful key forward. At 192 centimetres, the same height as Aaron Black, he would also be able to apply forward pressure when his side doesn’t have the ball.
Considering Giroud’s time in France led to him being dubbed ‘the charm striker’, he may challenge the likes of Andrew Swallow and Majak Daw for the female’s attention as well.
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From the past, Eric Cantona would be an inspirational player in the forward half. Generally regarded as one of Manchester United’s greatest ever players, his time as an actor would surely see North on the positive side of most free-kick counts, and he already possesses great foot skills.
Recently retired David Beckham would draw the fans into the ground and provide a massive marketing boost. While North is wiping away its debt quickly, the presence of Beckham would eradicate it in record time.
Closer to home, Mark Viduka was one of the most successful Australians ever to play in the EPL. Potentially a quality mid-sized forward at 188 centimetres, his physical presence would be handy with the ball at ground level.
Who do you think would be the best AFL player from the EPL if they had the skills of Daniel Wells? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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