Fremantle forward Bailey Banfield has revealed that he was open to a move this off-season before eventually re-signing with the Dockers for two more years.
Out of contract, Banfield fielded offers from multiple clubs before choosing to stay at Freo.
"I did have a bit of interest elsewhere and I seriously considered that," Banfield told The West Australian.
"It would've been remiss of me not to think about my options and whether or not my footy would be better off elsewhere."
Banfield was used as the medical sub ten times throughout the season, playing in 23 AFL matches.
Varied game time and instability in his role have been challenging for the 24-year-old, but team success made his decision easier.
"It's about the group we've got at the club and the fact we've been a part of it, building over the past four or five years," said Banfield, speaking at Fremantle's Kimberley 9s carnival.
"It would've been a massive shame to leave now having tasted a little bit of success.
"Hopefully, we can go a few steps further next year. I love the club, not only on the field and the group we've got but all of the stuff like this outside of footy. It has a special place in my heart."
Fremantle lost talls Griffin Logue, Rory Lobbย and Lloyd Meek this trade period, as well as two midfielders in Blake Acres and Darcy Tucker.
New additions Jaeger O'Meara, young star Luke Jackson and Josh Corbett are welcome additions, and Banfield is excited to play with his new forward partner.
"We play slightly different roles. Hopefully, he drops a few marks and I can swoop in and crumb them," he said of Jackson.
"Improving my fitness is always a challenge this time of year. Training up here (in Broome) helps with a bit of heat training.
"I'm working on my speed and change of direction as well with our strength and conditioning staff to keep adding layers. Once we start pre-season, I'll keep working on that football craft as well."
