From FoxSports.com.au
Michael Gibbons was once again overlooked by all AFL clubs. Photo: Mike Owen/AFL Media/Getty Images.Source: Getty Images
What more does Michael Gibbons need to do to get onto an AFL list?
The Williamstown VFL player is a dual JJ Liston Trophy winner (VFL Best & Fairest Winner) at just 23 years of age, but continues to be snubbed by AFL clubs.
Former Melbourne and Sydney coach Paul Roos told Fox Footy’s On The Couch in August that Gibbons was worthy of a spot on an AFL list and could help struggling clubs down the bottom of the ladder.
The three-time VFL Team of the Year winner also won the 2015 Norm Goss Medal as the best player in the VFL Grand Final.
“Now Micky Gibbons is now playing for Williamstown in the VFL, he was as standout young kid that played I think two years in the Rams (NSW-ACT) program as a bottom-age kid and played as a top-age kid.
“Now the only real criticism is that he’s not big, you see him here he’s 175cm but just your classic kid that keeps getting the football over and over again.”
Gibbons poses with the Norm Goss Medal in 2015. Photo: Michael Dodge/AFL Media/Getty Images.Source: Getty Images
Gibbons’ VFL teammates Lachlan Schultz, Brett Bewley and Ben Cavarra were selected in the national draft, but former AFL player Jack Fitzpatrick was one of many who advocated for the prospect to be taken by a club.
“Memo to every single AFL club. The three Williamstown VFL players taken thus far are very good players. BUT, Michael Gibbons is still available, and you’re actually allowed to recruit,” he tweeted on Friday.
“I repeat; Gibbons — Willi’s best player — is STILL available!”
Jack Fitzpatrick@jfitzpatrick_t1
Memo to every single @AFL club:
The 3 @WilliamstownFC @VFL players taken thus far are very good players. BUT, Michael Gibbons is still available, and you’re actually allowed to recruit him.
I repeat; Gibbons - Willi’s best player - is STILL available!#AFLDraft
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Former AFL player and current Williamstown VFL assistant coach Peter Banfield was another who threw his support around the midfielder, who averaged 26.4 disposals in 2018.
“I just don’t (get) it that no one took him, seriously, he is the best player in the VFL.”
A bumper day for the VFL, one of its best draft hauls. But you’d have a heart of stone if you didn’t feel for Michael Gibbons. The Williamstown midfielder, clothed in honours and achievement, missed out on both drafts. It’s a brutal game....
Peter Banfield@Peter_Banfield_
I just don't it that no one took him, seriously, he is the best player in the VFL
See Peter Banfield's other Tweets
A bumper day for the VFL, one of its best draft hauls. But you’d have a heart of stone if you didn’t feel for Michael Gibbons. The Williamstown midfielder, clothed in honours and achievement, missed out on both drafts. It’s a brutal game....
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A great mystery, Steve. Thoughts of entire @VFL community go out to @michaelgibbons I’m sure. Once disappointment eases, I really hope he keeps getting better & kicks the door in at next level. Deserves it & State League footy needs guys like Gibbo to set the standard.
Replying to @JasonBennettTV @WerribeeFC
How does arguably the best of the lot in Gibbons continually miss the bus?? Kid cant so anymore
