Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir has dismissed commentary surrounding star Nat Fyfe upon his return from injury, as the Brownlow medallist spends more time in the forward 50.
Fyfe has spent most of 2022 on the sidelines battling a shoulder injury, finally making his return in Round 13.
While on his return from injury Fyfe played a role in the midfield, he was rarely sighted in the centre on Sunday evening, instead spending most of the match in attack.
Asked about Fyfe in the post-game press conference, Longmuir was quick to snap back, urging pundits to "give the guy a break" after what was just his third game back from injury.
โWe want him up around stoppage. Then we want him forward of the ball,โ Longmuir said.
โHe was back to some of his best through those middle two terms to get the ball onto our terms. He took a step forward.
โ(Playing him forward) was around making sure we are clear on our roles; that helped him be clear of his role and other mids of their roles.
โIt took confusion out of it for us.
โIโm not going to give opposition a headstart on what weโre doing with Nathan Fyfe every week. Itโs supposed to be a secret, some of this stuff.
โI get asked 15 questions a week on Fyfeโs game time and split. Give the guy a break. We all want him back to his best, itโs going to take a little bit of time. I thought he took a good step forward today and was instrumental when we were playing our best footy.
Fyfe ended the match, an eight-point victory to Fremantle, with 21 disposals and a goal.
The two-time Brownlow medallist and three-time All Australian may still see more midfield minutes in the home and away season and beyond, as Fremantle secure their hold on a top four spot, now a game clear of nearest foes, Carlton.
