The historic significance of Stephen Silvagni's imminent return to the Carlton Football Club should not be underestimated. Nor should the political devastation to Carlton and personal pain to SOS himself inflicted as a result of the salary cap scandal that decimated the Blues.

Silvagni is expected to be installed at the club he served as a player for 312 games by Christmas, or certainly before the start of next season. He will take over the list management role that has not exactly been a jewel in the Blues' crown for many years. Far from it.

Stephen Silvagni in 2001. Credit:Getty Images

If Silvagni's decision to quit Carlton 11 years ago after just one turbulent year as a director was like a divorce, then his return in such a significant role could be seen as a renewal of vows he never truly abandoned. This despite the deep hurt to both club legend and his family which saw him unfairly singled out by John Elliott and his followers as the bete noir of the salary cap mess.

Like any sensible remarriage there seems to be the strong prospect of a pre-nuptial agreement. And in this case it refers to the children. Jack, Ben and Tom have all been part of the Blues' father-son academy, and Jack will be available to the club as a father-son at the end of next year.