Fremantle captain Nat Fyfe admits he was left “really disappointed” after hearing of Adam Cerra’s trade request.
The 21-year-old recently requested a trade back home to Victoria after four seasons at the Dockers, with the gun on-baller averaging 23 touches from 18 games this season.
Fyfe said it was particularly grating to see Cerra walk out on the club after making a concerted effort to help him grow as a footballer in recent years.
“I am (disappointed) but I’ve probably moved on from it a little bit,” he said on Sportsday.
"I was really disappointed initially as he’s such a good young player and young man, he’s put a lot of work into our club over four years.
“Frustratingly as a senior player, David Mundy and myself have stepped aside in the last couple of years to try and grow some of these young players so it does bite when they do pick up and head back home, as is their right to do.
“But by the same token, we have seen Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong who have come through and are going to be midfield guns for years to come.”
Both Carlton and Melbourne have made a play for Cerra’s services, ahead of the trade period which begins on October 4.
More in AFL
“This time next year…”: Cornes’ bold pick for his next AFL head coach in waiting
“I think he is the most ready head coach in waiting.”
What Achilles heel?: The six things we learnt during Gather Round
From Nick Daicos to Josh Treacy, here are six things we learnt during Gather Round!
Trade talk: Star Blue heavily considering "attractive" Saints deal
“If he hasn't signed by midseason, then he's probably on his way.”