NEW Brisbane recruit Josh Walker has a simple message to his new Lions teammates – kick it to me.
Walker was traded from Geelong to the Lions last month with the strong marking key forward embracing the move north to get more opportunities in the big time.
The 22-year-old kicked 35 goals in 33 senior games (including four finals) for Geelong after making his AFL debut in 2012.
He booted 19 majors in 16 top-level outings in 2015, including a bag of five goals against Brisbane in Round 18.
At 196cm and 99kg, the 2012 VFL premiership player is a ready-made option as the no.1 target at the Gabba while the emerging young forwards on Brisbane’s list find their feet.
“That’s the idea. There’s a lot of talent in the Lions midfield and they are young at either end so hopefully I can come in and provide a reliable target up forward,’’ Walker said.
“I want to be someone they feel confident kicking the ball long to while kicking a few goals along the way.
“I’m pretty excited about the move, to be honest. It’s a good opportunity to join a team with exciting young players, play regular senior footy and take my game to another level.
“I feel like I will have a lot more responsibility at Brisbane and that will only help my football and hopefully help the Lions as a whole.’’
Walker played junior football with former Cat Allen Christensen at Lara in Geelong and the Brisbane midfielder has been busy singing the praises of the Sunshine State to recruit his good friend.
“I’ve only heard good things about Brisbane,’’ Walker said.
“I’ve lived in Geelong my whole life so it’s not a bad thing to experience a new town and a new footy club.
“Bundy (Christensen) has been really positive about the playing group and the lifestyle. He’s been a very good advocate for Brisbane.
“Having some familiar faces like him, Westy (Trent West) and Jarrad Jansen will make the move a lot easier too.’’
Walker said Jansen, who was part of the trade with the Cats, would have an impact with Brisbane.
“Jarrad has been very good in the VFL for the past two years. He is a big-bodied midfielder who wins his own ball and is really explosive out of the packs so he could be very valuable to the Lions,’’ he said.
The growing Geelong influence at the Gabba could also help enhance Brisbane‘s culture.
“I think it helps having people from around a winning environment. The Cats coaching staff is full of guys from the great Brisbane sides and Geelong has benefitted from that,’’ he said.
“If the former Cats players can pass on some of that knowledge and experience it can only help the young players at Brisbane.’’
