Adelaide defender Wayne Milera says a move to half back helped him rediscover his best footy in 2023.

Milera played 22 of a possible 23 games for the Crows this season, the best return of his eight-year AFL career thus far.

The 25-year-old also found a permanent home in Adelaide’s young defence, where he averaged an impressive 19.7 disposals and 316.7 metres gained per game.

Joining Sauce and Thomo on last week’s edition of The Crows Radio Show, Milera said he had relished the opportunity to play across half back.

“I definitely think (half back) is where I play my best footy,” Milera said.

“Late in 2018 I was playing a role back there and I thought that period was the best of my career leading into this season.

“I’m really enjoying the group we’ve got back there this year, we’re really young and energetic which I think has gotten the best out of me this season, I’ve just loved every minute playing back there.”

Being part of a young Crows defensive unit, Milera had to transition into more of a leadership role over the course of the season.

He said the extra responsibility helped take his own game to new heights.

“It’s been really good taking on a bit more of a leadership role this year,” Milera said.

“A lot of it is that on-field stuff in helping us set up, and Burnsy (Scott Burns) has said that the younger boys do look to me being one of the more experienced players in the back line.

“I’ve found that when I’ve been more vocal on the field and helping others it has brought the best out of my footy, so I’m really keen to continue challenging myself in that space and becoming more of a leader.” 

Hear more from Milera, plus a chat with former Crow Brad Symes, by heading to the LiSTNR app or clicking the link above.