Sitting 17th on the ladder after nine rounds, the season has not quite gone according to plan for North Melbourne to date. Narrowly missing finals last year, the off-season saw a number of list changes and expectation was heightened entering 2019.

One of the key arrivals at Arden Street during the trade period was Jared Polec from Port Adelaide.

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The 26 year-old signed a five year deal and North Melbourne General Manager Cameron Joyce was delighted to secure the services of the classy midfielder.

“Jared has been an outstanding player and is coming off a career-best year. He will no doubt add a tremendous amount of run and class to our list, playing in the midfield and on a wing.”

Best footy for Jared Polec still to come

The former Port Adelaide and Brisbane player has had his fair share of injuries to contend with during his AFL journey.

This factor did have some scribes raising their eyebrows at the five year deal offered to Polec. Significantly the midfielder has been a regular at AFL level. The last three seasons playing 17,22 and 22 games to allay some of these fears.

While not completely dominating every week, the new Kangaroos recruit has been a solid contributor. Polec has played every game so far in 2019 and is averaging 22.2 disposals per match.

Outside class and creativity with ball in hand, the South Australian has consolidated his spot at his new club. And there is plenty to build on for rest of the season and long term at North Melbourne.

by Liam Sheedy – contributor

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