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Walsh in action for Ireland during the International Rules second test last October. ©INPHO/James Crombie
Men At Work

St. Kilda consider throwing Walsh in at the deep end

Saints coach Ross Lyon is tempted to hand the former Kerry footballer his first-team debut against the Western Bulldogs tomorrow.

INJURY-HIT ST. KILDA are toying with the idea of handing Tommy Walsh his first AFL start when the Melbourne side take on the Western Bulldogs tomorrow night.

The former Kerry footballer and All-Ireland medallist was promoted to the Saints’ senior list two weeks ago, though he has yet to be called up to the match-day squad by coach Ross Lyon.

However, with midfielder Leigh Montagna lost to a knee injury ahead of tomorrow’s game, Lyon told the Herald Sun that Walsh’s versatility could be a very useful asset to have on the bench.

The 23-year-old has trained primarily as a defender since moving to Australia in late 2009, though he is thought to be equally comfortable in a more advanced role as well.

“We’re talking about him at match committee,” Lyon said. “We’re looking for some support in the back half and forward half and maybe a mobile ruck support.

It’s not odds-on, but we’re looking at it.

Walsh has come in for high praise in recent days following a particularly assured performance for Sandringham, St. Kilda’s affiliate club, in their 69-59 defeat against the Casey Scorpions last Sunday, holding former All-Australian full-forward Brendan Fevola to just one goal.