HERE'S everything you need to know about new Blue Matthew Kennedy, who has joined Carlton from Greater Western Sydney. The Club secured his talents on the final day of the trade period in exchange for pick 28.

Age: 20

Height: 188cm

Weight: 88kg

Recruited from: Collingullie-Glenfield Park/GWS

Draft history: Selected by GWS with its first-round selection (pick 13 overall) in the 2015 AFL Draft (Richmond; matched by GWS GIANTS as Academy selection).

Debut: Round 13, 2016 v Essendon

Position: Midfielder

Career games: 19

Goals: 5

OVERVIEW

Touted as a prolific ball winner with strong hands, the GWS Academy product will be a welcome addition to the Blues midfield in 2018. The 2015 first-round draft pick played 16 games in his third season at the Giants, averaging just over 17 disposals and nearly five tackles per game. With nearly half of all his disposals contested possessions this season, it’s obvious Kennedy likes to win his own ball. His ability to run through the midfield and push up forward makes him a dangerous prospect for the opposition. Overhead marking is a key also a trademark of his game, not to mention his continual courage to back into a pack and put his body on the line.

It's official: @Matt_Kennedy15 is a Blue! We've exchanged pick 28 for the talented young midfielder. #BoundByBlue pic.twitter.com/VvNy05j3Fk — Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) October 19, 2017

BEST AFL PERFORMANCE

Kennedy made a solid impact in the Giants' Round 10 win against West Coast this season. The young midfielder gathered 28 disposals, including 11 contested possessions, four inside 50s and three tackles.

HE SAID IT

“I’ve always wanted to play for a Melbourne club, but at the end of the day I just want to be on an AFL list, so I’ll travel anywhere.

“Growing up in the country I’m a bit of a country kid and a humble bloke.”

- A young 18-year-old Kennedy spoke to AFL Media a few days out from the 2015 national draft.

WHAT WE CAN EXPECT

Kennedy will add more grunt to the Blues' midfield, teaming up with Patrick Cripps to gather clearances and win the hard ball. The 20-year-old has also shown he’s capable of hitting the scoreboard, kicking three goals in his debut game. We can’t wait to see him pull on the navy blue next season.



Welcome, Matthew!