Adam Goodes will return to training this week and is available for selection for the Sydney Swans’ AFL match against Geelong at Simonds Stadium on Saturday.
The dual Brownlow medallist was granted indefinite leave by the Swans in the wake of the reaction to opposition fans’ booing of him during the game against West Coast just over a week ago.
He had been told there was no pressure on him to return and no date had been set for him to do so, prompting speculation that he was considering immediate retirement.
But having spent some time away from Sydney with his family, Goodes has told Swans coach John Longmire he is now ready to get back to the day-to-day business of playing football.
“I spoke to Adam late yesterday afternoon and he will return to training tomorrow,” Longmire said on Monday. “He was humbled by the support he had over the weekend and he is grateful for the support from the football community.
“Adam wants to get back to training and playing, the things he really enjoys doing.
“Obviously he has played 18 years and he just wants to enjoy playing his footy again. He sounded really good yesterday and in a good frame of mind to come back to training.”
In the absence of Goodes, the Swans comfortably beat Adelaide at the SCG, which was decked out in flags and banners in support of the star player.
Backing for Goodes was not limited just to the Swans’ home venue, with other AFL clubs, fans and players uniting across the country to make a stand against his detractors and the abuse meted out to him.
Those scenes were repeated at some NRL matches and even at a V8 Supercars event in Queensland.
Longmire revealed that Goodes did not intend to watch the Swans’ game against the Crows but ended up tuning into the final three quarters and was was left astonished by the level of support on show.
“It was a special day on Saturday. Our club has appreciated all the support from our supporters, players and other codes,” Longmire said.
Asked what kind of reception he thought Cats fans would give Goodes this coming Saturday, Longmire said: “An atmosphere that you appreciate one of the greats that’s played the game and you are watching him run around.
“It’s all Adam would expect as well.”
