GWS coach Adam Kingsley has provided clear expectations of forward recruit Jake Stringer following his switch from Essendon.
Stringer will enter his third AFL club in 2025 after stints at the Western Bulldogs (2013-2017) and the Bombers (2018-2024) as a hybrid forward, kicking 367 goals in 212 games.
However, despite the obvious star talent the 30-year-old possesses, he has found himself on the outer at two clubs.
Stringer said he was shocked by the Bulldogs' decision to trade him at the cessation of the 2017 campaign, whilst only two months ago, the Bombers opted not to extend his contract beyond 2025, essentially putting him on the market.
Appearing onย AFL.com.au'sย Gettable Draft Countdown, Kingsley made it clear to the 2016 premiership player what he expects from him whilst also noting there are "some things he needs to work on".
"Goals," Kingsley said.
"It's always nice. Who (doesn't) love goals? He's a wonderful player, high talent, one that I think can really help our team.
"He'll play a variety of roles for us, whether it's forward, midfield, centre bounce. We see him being able to do a lot of that stuff.
"Clearly, he's got some things he needs to work on, and we think we can help him do that, and if he's able to tick those things off, then I think he becomes a really important player for us and hopefully can help us get closer to that premiership."
Stringer's trade to the Giants was anything but straightforward, going down to the wire before the final day deadline.
Kingsley recalled a conversation during the negotiations before the official trade went through, which revolved around providing an outline of what the club demands of him.
"We had a conversation a little while before the call was made, probably a week, and I was pretty strong with my expectations around "if you are to come to the club, this is what I expect"," Kingsley said.
"He certainly had some opinions about what he could offer us, which was great to hear, and he'll start with all those young boys. I think he drives up in a few days' time, he'll settle in before Christmas and then bring his family up post-Christmas.
"He's pretty keen to get stuck in, and we're pretty keen to have him."
Stringer will join a potent forward line that boasts star players Jesse Hogan and Toby Greene alongside a raft of speedy smalls.
The Giants saw a quartet of senior players depart the club, including Harry Perryman and James Peatling, which will likely see the former Bomber spend time through the midfield.
Kingsley and his men have teetered close to its maiden premiership, having bowed out in 2023 to eventual premiers Collingwood by one point in the penultimate match whilst going out in straight sets to 2024 grand finalists by a combined 11 points.
GWS hold picks 15, 16, 21, 37, 56, 73 in the upcoming National Draft.
The AFL's youngest club will once again feature in Opening Round, hosting Collingwood at ENGIE Stadium on March 9.
