Geelong forward Daniel Menzel was surprisingly dropped ahead of his side's clash with Richmond at the MCG on Friday night, but his manager believes Menzel is still happy to remain with the Cats.
The 25-year-old is out of contract at season's end and has not been offered a new deal by Geelong, despite booting 38 goals in 17 games, the second-most by a Cat all season.
His manager, former Essendon player Adam Ramanauskas, says Menzel is ready to work hard on the defensive side of his game, in order to remain in Geelong.
"I think any person is surprised when they're dropped when you've kicked 38 goals in 17 games this season," Ramanauskas told RSN on Friday morning.
"He's disappointed with being omitted from the side, but at the same time there's still a lot of football to be played in September.
"He's got a great attitude after coming back from four knee reconstructions, so he wants to be (at Geelong).
"He knows he's got to work on the defensive side of his game, and he's prepared to do that.
"He's got to take it on the chin because there are teammates to support, and he needs support from them."
Alongside Menzel, tall forward Wylie Buzza was omitted from the side, with captain Joel Selwood returning from ankle surgery, and young defender Zach Guthrie also coming in.