Exciting forward Troy Menzel has joined the Crows in a trade with Carlton.
As part of the deal, Adelaide parted with midfielder Sam Kerridge, who requested a move to the Blues, and also draft pick No.28.
Menzel, 21, returns to South Australia after three seasons at Carlton.
Originally recruited with pick No.11 in the 2012 National Draft, Menzel kicked 47 goals in 40 games with the Blues.
The left-footer bagged a career-high four goals against Geelong in Round Eight this season. He earned a Rising Star nomination in Round 16, 2014.
Menzel was excited by the opportunity to continue his AFL career at Adelaide.
“As I kid I dreamed of playing for the Crows so to, hopefully, pull on the jumper one day will be an amazing feeling,” Menzel said.
“I’d like to thank the Carlton Football Club and all the Blues fans for their support over the past few years.
“I’ll always be grateful to the club for drafting me and giving me the chance to play AFL footy.
“I had a pretty frustrating year and wasn’t able to play the consistent footy that I would’ve liked.
“I’m really looking forward to getting stuck into pre-season and earning the respect of all the boys and the coaches here at Adelaide.”
Menzel, who made his league debut with Central District at the age of 17, has genuine x-factor.
At 187cm, 85kg, the former Golden Grove junior is a medium-sized forward, who is strong overhead, clean at ground level and also has uncanny goal sense.
Crows Head of Football David Noble said the Club was thrilled to secure a player of Menzel’s talent.
“Troy was a first-round draft pick only a few years ago,” Noble said.
“He’s played some really good footy at AFL level and, at only 21 years of age, has plenty of scope for improvement.
“Troy will add another dimension to our dynamic forward and midfield lines and we think he can develop the flexibility to play in other positions.
“It’s always nice to be able to bring a South Aussie home too.”
Kerridge departs after playing 27 AFL games in four seasons with Adelaide.
Noble thanked the hard-working onballer for his contribution to the Club.
“Sam is a popular and respected player within our group,” Noble said.
“Carlton has offered Sam a longer-term deal and we respect his decision to purse that opportunity.
“We wish Sam and his family all the best for the future.”
