Matthew Lloyd has expressed doubts regarding the compatibility of Tom Mitchell and Ned Long in Collingwood’s midfield. He believes this duo’s presence may hinder the team’s performance, especially considering how the Magpies have adjusted in Mitchell’s absence. After a lengthy hiatus of 435 days, Mitchell returned to the AFL against Carlton but has played alongside Long in two matches, leading Lloyd to conclude that their roles overlap too much, which detracts from the effectiveness of other players on the field.
The situation has raised concerns about Mitchell’s future with the team, as Lloyd highlights the potential for Collingwood to struggle against top teams if they continue featuring a midfield that lacks pace. During a notable clash against the Gold Coast, both Mitchell and Long struggled to match the opposition’s speed, underscoring their performance deficits. Lloyd insists that a midfield comprising Mitchell, Long, and Nick Daicos lacks the necessary agility, which was painfully evident in their recent match losses.
Lloyd pointed out that while both Mitchell and Long excel at winning contested ball, their similar styles make it challenging for Collingwood to field them together effectively. He advocated for a more dynamic midfield strategy, suggesting that if Mitchell is to remain in the squad, he should adjust his approach, focusing less on accumulation and more on facilitating the game for faster teammates, such as Daicos and Pendlebury.
Mitchell, a former Brownlow Medallist, has played a crucial role in Collingwood’s previous successes, particularly during their 2023 premiership run. However, a significant foot injury has meant that he was sidelined for much of the 2024 season, allowing Long to step in and contribute to the team’s evolving dynamic. The combination of players like Nick Daicos, Pendlebury, and Long has proven effective, especially when complemented by the likes of Josh Daicos and Steele Sidebottom.
As Collingwood prepares for their upcoming match against Fremantle at the MCG, they remain at the top of the ladder, despite their recent loss to Gold Coast. Nonetheless, the questions surrounding Mitchell’s place in the team continue, particularly with Long’s impressive emergence this year. The roadmap for Collingwood’s midfield strategy is crucial as they aim to maintain their strong position in the competition.