Matthew Richardson: Aaron Naughton Should Play Forward, Not Defender

Former AFL player Matthew Richardson believes that Aaron Naughton, a current AFL player, should be playing as a forward rather than a defender. Richardson argues that Naughton is one of the few key forwards in the game capable of scoring more than six goals in a match, as he demonstrated in a recent game against the Saints.

"Naughton proved he is more valuable to his team as a key forward inside 50, rather than playing as a defender," Richardson stated. The former player stressed that Naughton's goal-scoring ability and impact as a forward make him a greater asset to his team in that position.

Richardson's comments come amidst ongoing discussions about Naughton's best position on the field. While Naughton has played as a defender in the past, his recent performances as a forward have drawn attention to his potential in that role.

As the 2024 AFL season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Naughton's team will heed Richardson's advice and deploy him primarily as a forward. The decision could have significant implications for both Naughton's individual performance and his team's success this year.

Richardson, who played 282 games for Richmond between 1993 and 2009, is considered one of the greatest forwards in AFL history. His perspective on Naughton's ideal position carries weight given his own experience and expertise as a key forward.

Naughton's versatility as a player who can perform in both defense and attack is valuable, but Richardson contends that his greatest impact lies in his ability to kick goals and create scoring opportunities as a forward. As the season unfolds, Naughton's positioning and performance will likely remain a topic of discussion among AFL pundits and fans alike.

Key Takeaways

• Former AFL player Richardson believes Naughton should play as a forward, not defender.
• Naughton proved his goal-scoring ability as a forward in a recent game against Saints.
• Richardson argues Naughton's goal-scoring impact makes him more valuable as a forward.
• Naughton's team may heed Richardson's advice and deploy him primarily as a forward.
• Richardson, a renowned AFL forward, believes Naughton's greatest impact is as a goal-scorer.