Four rounds into the year and Daniel Menzel has started the 2018 season in sizzling form.

A return of 14 goals sees the 26 year-old only three goals behind Lance Franklin at the top of the goal kicking charts.

Menzel continued his fine form with five goals in the victory over St Kilda last Sunday.

After the clash, Geelong coach Chris Scott praised the performance of Daniel Menzel and hinted he was keen for the mercurial forward to remain at the Cattery.

“I think everyone’s crystal-clear when it comes to Dan. And I feel for him, but he just can’t expect that any club’s going to commit to him for the long term. Because there just so many doubts over his body, and none of them are his fault. It’s just the unfortunate situation he’s in. But I’d love to have him committed for 2019.”

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Nothing new

The situation is not foreign for Daniel Menzel. He was faced with a similar conundrum last year about his AFL future with his contract coming to an end in 2017.

The discussion on whether the South Australian would look to depart the Cats only intensified when Menzel was dropped for Geelong’s first final against Richmond after playing 17 games for the season.

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The forward was recalled the following week but it was believed Menzel was exploring his options as a free agent at season’s end after the Cats only offered a one year deal.

In the end, a move did not come to fruition. With minimal interest from other clubs, Daniel Menzel eventually signed on with Geelong for the 2018 season.

No rush on a decision for Daniel Menzel

While the media are rightfully full of praise for Menzel, the forward is happy with how his form and talks are progressing.

“I’m completely fine with where things are at. We’re four games into the season and I’m just enjoying playing every week. That’s my focus. Everyone externally can talk about it if they like. But for me it’s just about being able to play every week that’s so enjoyable.”

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After a wretched run with injury that has included four knee reconstructions, the 26 year-old is now starting to string together a consistent run at AFL level. 37 games in total for the 2016/17 seasons and every game so far in 2018.

Chris Scott may be right that the injury history may rule out anything more than a one year deal. But if Menzel keeps bagging goals, perhaps that view will start to change.

by Liam Sheedy – contributor

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