NEW CROW Tom Lynch could become Adelaide's handyman in 2012, with the 192cm former Saint claiming his versatility will be the key to locking down a permanent spot in his club's starting 22.
Lynch booted four goals in last week's internal trial match, but said that while he expected to play a considerable amount of time up forward, he has had to prepare himself for roles in defence as well.
With the retirement of utility Scott Stevens last year, Lynch might just fit Adelaide's bill.
"I've had a bit of a go over the pre-season of playing a bit up forward and playing a bit down back," Lynch said.
"I've spoken to the coaches and they've been pretty clear that I've got to be pretty flexible in being able to play both forward and back.
"I've got to be ready for whatever happens in a game, so I've got to keep training to play in defence."
A first-round NAB AFL Draft pick for St Kilda in 2008 at No. 13, Lynch found himself stuck behind Nick Riewoldt and Justin Koschitzke in the Saints' pecking order and managed just six AFL games before being traded to Adelaide last October.
In his 12 VFL games for Sandringham last year, he was named in the best on seven occasions.
Lynch said Adelaide's NAB Cup campaign would be vital if he were to cement his position in the side before the club's round-one date with Gold Coast.
He said Adelaide fielded 44 players in their internal trial that was played behind locked gates at AAMI Stadium, a statistic indicative of a healthy list and one that means selection headaches of the best kind for coach Brenton Sanderson.
Lynch said a successful NAB Cup campaign would hopefully see him line up against the Suns on March 31.
"The next month is pretty important for not just myself, but I think a lot of the players will be fighting for spots.
"Hopefully I can get a few games together and play some pretty handy footy and get into the side for the start of the season," he said.
"If I can play some consistent footy and fit in well with Tex (Taylor Walker) and Tippo (Kurt Tippett), I might find myself in the side."
Adelaide will hold a light training session on Saturday morning, before facing Carlton and then Port Adelaide on Sunday afternoon.
Harry Thring covers Adelaide news for AFL.com.au. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_Harry
