Former Western Bulldogs and Sydney defender Michael Talia hasn't given up his AFL dream, and is hopeful of returning on to a senior list in 2019.
Since joining the Dogs in 2012, Talia has played 31 AFL games, although his last and only appearance for Sydney came in round one, 2016 against Collingwood.
The 24-year-old has signed with Norwood in the SANFL for the 2018 campaign, but only has to look at fellow defender Cam O'Shea to know his career isn't over.
"Cam O'Shea was on the Northern Blues' list this year, he had a year out of the game and was working," Talia told AFL.com.au.
"I'm hoping I can have a similar experience.
"I genuinely believe I'm good enough to be on an AFL list and Norwood's going to be the best club for me to get re-drafted from.
"I still think I have a lot of good football left to give at the age of 24."
Talia, who was selected with the 39th pick in the 2011 national draft by the Bulldogs, says he still believes he has good football ahead of him.
"I was playing good football in the NEAFL in 2017, but it wasn't translating into senior footy," Talia said.
"I know I still have a lot of good, senior football left in me.
"What gives me confidence is how I played in round one for Sydney in 2016.
"They were really happy with how I was going, but I unfortunately broke my foot and then there was an off-field incident, but the delisting is not going to deter me."
The off-field incident Talia was referring to happened in July 2016, as the defender was arrested for possession of cocaine.
Talia was then stood down by the Swans and never played another senior game, and has since spent a lot of time rebuilding relationships with those around him.
"I've learnt massive lessons, the people that are there for you when you make a mistake and who is there to support you," he said.
"Just maturing as a person, coming out of myself out of the bubble and worrying about me, to realising your actions have impacts on a whole range of people, whether it's people from the footy club, your family, your friends.
"It's definitely been a good life lesson, and in a way, I'm glad it happened, because it's made me mature as a person."
After he was delisted by Sydney, Talia was close to being offered a position on St Kilda's playing list, although the Saints opted for former Port Adelaide player Logan Austin.
