Sydney assistant coach Don Pyke has provided an update on Swansย youngster Will Gould, who despite strong VFL form remains untried at AFL level.
Gould was drafted by Sydney with the 26th pick in the 2019 National Draft, coming into the AFL system with a ready-made body for senior football.
However, due to inconsistency and lack of opportunity, the 21-year-old has failed to break into the 22 despite impressing in the reserves in his third season.
Speaking onย SEN SA's The Run Home, Pyke said Gould's form this year has put him on the cusp of selection throughout this season after a disappointing first two seasons of his career.
"He struggled last year a little bit, this year his form has been a lot more consistent," Pyke said.
"When I say struggled last year, it was probably just his struggle with consistency.
"This year he's been far more consistent.
"His name is regularly mentioned at selection."
With the resurgence of Paddy McCartin in 2022, who shares a similar playstyle to Gould, Pyke said that the South Australian has found it difficult to get an opportunity at senior level in the strong Sydney back six.
"He's really waiting in the wings at this point for someone to drop off in form or an opportunity in the senior team," he said.
"With Paddy McCartin coming in and playing the role he did has probably made it hard for Will because they're similar type players.
"He's progressing, I think he's a better player now than he was say at the start of the year.
"If he keeps working away and keeps improving that consistency, that opportunity can come."
The 191cm defender, who has the ability to play as both a tall and a small, remains without a new deal for 2023 and beyond.
With the Swans likely to play finals in 2022, Gould will be eager to continue his fine VFL form and capitalise on any opportunity that comes his way in the final stages of this season.
