Adelaide Crows thrilled to sign Menzel

For the second time in the space of three years, AFL club Adelaide have signed one of Carlton’s most capable goal-kickers.

South Australian Troy Menzel returned home on Wednesday, joining former teammate Eddie Betts at the Crows.

Betts arrived after the 2013 season as a free agent, the Blues unwilling to match a lucrative four-year deal for the experienced forward.

There was far less speculation involved with Menzel’s move, which came as club legend Stephen Silvagni significantly reshaped Carlton’s list.

The 21-year-old showed much potential in the 40 games he’d played since being taken by Carlton with pick No.11 in the 2012 draft.

“He’s played some really good footy at AFL level and, at only 21 years of age, has plenty of scope for improvement,” Crows head of football David Noble said.

“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.”

The Crows have been one of the most active clubs in trade period, sorting a no-nonsense deal with Geelong for wantaway superstar Patrick Dangerfield then recruiting Paul Seedsman and Curtly Hampton.

Menzel earned a Rising Star nomination in 2014 but was unable to kick on as much as he wanted this year.

“I had a pretty frustrating year and wasn’t able to play the consistent footy that I would’ve liked,” he said.

“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.

“As I kid I dreamed of playing for the Crows so to, hopefully, pull on the jumper one day will be an amazing feeling.”

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