Former Essendonย defender Conor McKenna is reportedly looking to return to Australia to play AFL in 2023 after stepping away from the game after the 2020 season to return to his family in Ireland.
The small defender struggled to break into Essendon's side in his final season, having only played six games after a 22-game season in 2019.
But the now 26-year-old has shown previously he can be a vital run-and-dash half back, having at one point in 2019 had a 35-disposal game along with plenty of mid-20 disposal performances.
With all this in mind, we examine five potential landing spots for Conor McKenna.
4. Gold Coast Suns
Gold Coast could also be a possible destination for McKenna, who cannot seem to take a trick when it comes to small defenders.
The Suns have already declared they want to boost their defensive stocks next year, due to multiple serious injuries in the area.
Both Lachie Weller and Connor Budarick suffered ACL injuries midway through the year and will miss a fair chunk of the 2023 season, whilst Wil Powell also succumbed to a sickening broken ankle injury in June that ended his season.
Sean Lemmens is the only recognised small defender at the club that has had an injury-free season.
With this in mind, Conor McKenna almost seems like an ideal player for Stuart Dew to bring in, a player that provides plenty of run-and-dash off half-back which the club is crying out for.
The 26-year-old has plenty of experience as well which could be vital to a young Gold Coast backline.
McKenna could have a serious impact at a club like the Gold Coast suns in 2023.
