Gerard Healy “nonsense” of AFL players requesting trades home

Gerard Healy has slammed the notion of player homesickness as the AFL trade period reaches its cresendo.

The Sportsday co-host is fed up with non-Victorian clubs signing players for two years before they opt to return to their home state.

He cited the example of Jack Scrimshaw, who played just four games for the Gold Coast Suns in two years before requesting a trade home.

Tim Kelly and Dayne Beams have also both expressed their desire to return to their respective native states during the current trade window.

“What a nonsense this has become,” he said.

“Imagine they chose tennis, soccer or cricket instead of football and then they got home sick. If you’re an aspiring young tennis player, you’d be (playing) in the United States at 14, in Europe by 16 and then travelling around the world for the rest of your career.

“Homesickness and family issues take a backseat (in tennis) and instead you get replaced by someone hungrier who just wants it a little more.”

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