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Delisted Docker Barlow: “I’ve never felt as confident in my future”

Midfielder Michael Barlow says he’s received strong interest from AFL clubs in signing him following his delisting by Fremantle.

Oct 26, 2016, updated Oct 26, 2016
Michael Barlow racked up 43 touches in a best on ground performance against Port Adelaide in Round 13. Photo: Tony McDonough / AAP

Michael Barlow racked up 43 touches in a best on ground performance against Port Adelaide in Round 13. Photo: Tony McDonough / AAP

The 28-year-old’s release by the Dockers on Monday came as no shock, with Barlow admitting the “writing was on the wall” following an up-and-down season that included his relegation to the WAFL in May and a shoulder injury.

“I knew my time was up and in reality I feel it’s really the best thing for me and my football,” he told 6PR yesterday.

Barlow played 126 games in seven seasons with Fremantle.

He was recruited as a mature-age rookie after starring in the VFL, and a strong debut year in 2010 saw him finish 21st in the Brownlow Medal race, despite his season ending prematurely with a badly broken leg.

He also played in Fremantle’s 2013 grand final loss to Hawthorn.

Barlow admitted not being offered a new deal was hard to take considering his eighth-place in the best-and-fairest race despite an interrupted year.

But his management had fielded “constructive approaches” in the off-season.

“There’s some good, strong interest which is really pleasing,” he said.

“I’ve never felt as confident in my future.”

Adelaide has been linked to the strong-bodied midfielder after it failed to secure Bryce Gibbs from Carlton in the trade period window.

-AAP

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