Captain Phil Davis is upbeat about GWS winning the AFL tug-of-war over Cam McCarthy’s future, despite the forward appearing determined to return to WA.

The Giants would not budge during last month’s trade period as Fremantle tried hard to strike a deal for McCarthy, who kicked 35 goals this season.

His manager Colin Young guaranteed on the last day of the trade period that they would be back in 12 months’ time, trying again to secure a trade west.

McCarthy has two years left on his contract, but the 20-year-old has cited family as to why he wants to join Fremantle.

Davis told SEN on Thursday that McCarthy had enjoyed his two seasons at the Giants.

He added that coach Leon Cameron had already said the club would try to ensure that McCarthy can return to WA more regularly.

“For the first two years, he’s had such a great time,” Davis said.

“When you’re 19-20, it’s pretty normal for players to miss home.

“That’s just the way it is – you always need to have a little bit of give and take in these situations.”

Davis also backed the club’s refusal to strike a deal with the Dockers.

“He’s shown he’s going to be such a great player,” he said.

“He’s an important part of our team and an important part of our club in the wider sense, in terms of what he brings to the dynamics.

“You definitely have to hold your nerve.”

Davis said that McCarthy is a popular player at the Giants.

“The one thing about Cam, the boys love him,” he said.

“I’m sure he’ll come back and within a few months he’ll realise how much he loves the club again and will fit in just like he did.

“Hopefully he can see we’re heading (down) the right path.”