As Luke Parker gets ready to face the GWS Giants in the opening week of the 2024 AFL Finals, the Swans veteran has broken his silence on his future at the club and links to the North Melbourne Kangaroos.
In recent weeks, the experienced midfielder has been crucial in the Swans line-up after spending time on the sidelines with injury and a stint in the VFL.
Playing more of a forward-midfield role, Parker has rejuvenated his career and caught the attention of rival teams as he approaches the backend of his AFL playing career and can add some much-needed experience to other clubs.
With reports indicating in recent weeks that he is "open to exploring a move to a rival club at the end of the year", North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson recently confirmed that the club were interested in talking to Parker along with teammate Dane Rampe and Port Adelaide midfielder Ollie Wines.
Aiming to repeat his success at the Hawthorn Hawks, Clarkson is aiming to lure experienced players to the Kangaroos to help mentor and guide the younger players in the squad with their leadership.
"Oh, a little bit," Parker said when asked if he was surprised when Kangaroos coach Alastair Clarkson name-dropped him a couple of weeks ago.
"I haven't heard too much about it, but look, it's flattering that those teams kind of bring up your name and mention there's someone of interest, but I've got games to focus on and finals to focus on.
"It'd be weird (to leave the Sydney Swans), but at the moment, I'm just trying to enjoy each opportunity that I get."
Earlier this week, Sydney Swans CEO Tom Harley stated that he was confident in the veteran remaining in the Red and White beyond this season after Parker nor his management had come to the club about any concerns.
โYeah, I am (expecting Parker to stay),โ Harley toldย SEN Breakfast.
โHe's contracted, and he's playing a really significant role at the moment, and we haven't had any conversations with Luke or his management about anything other than that.
โThat would be the expectation for sure (that he stays).โ
The Sydney Swans will host the GWS Giants at the SCG on Saturday afternoon for a chance to advance straight to the Preliminary Final.
