Crows confident of keeping Josh Jenkins

Melbourne-based AFL clubs are wasting their time by sniffing around Adelaide forward Josh Jenkins, Crows coach Don Pyke says.

Pyke expects Jenkins, off contract at season’s end, to sign a fresh deal with Adelaide and reject reported interest from some Melbourne-based rivals.

“From a list management point of viewpoint, we’re in discussions and hoping to finalise getting him signed,” Pyke told reporters on Wednesday.

Jenkins, whose market value is soaring after an eye-catching 10 goals in the first three games of the season, is keen to remain in Adelaide.

“He has been terrific. He has had a great start to the year,” Pyke said before Saturday night’s home game against Sydney.

“We want to try and create an environment from a player’s viewpoint – they feel they’re given the best chance to play some good footy individually but play as part of a good side.

“And it’s pleasing for any player to say they’re enjoying their environment they’re working in and they’d like to stay.”

Jenkins has become Adelaide’s key forward with captain Taylor Walker taking a more selfless role in the league’s highest-scoring attack, though he’s still kicked seven goals this season.

“We’re not measuring our forwards on their goals,” Pyke said.

“That is one of their outputs. But I’m really pleased with a lot of things Tex (Walker) is doing off the ball for us at the moment.

“His turn will come. Tom (Lynch) kicked six in the Showdown. We’ve had Josh Jenkins kick a five and a four.

“So that to me is what we’re about. We want a really even spread and we’re getting that.”

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!