Port Adelaide Urged to Rest Charlie Dixon for Physical Recovery by Matthew Lloyd

Former Essendon star Matthew Lloyd has advised Port Adelaide‘s coach Ken Hinkley to strategically withdraw veteran forward Charlie Dixon from the senior side for a month for essential physical recovery.

Dixon, who delivered a subdued performance in the recent clash against Carlton with minimal impact on the game, was notably pulled out during the third quarter after recording just one disposal and two tackles.

Lloyd expressed concerns over Dixon, accentuating that the seasoned player appears to be struggling physically and might benefit from a substantial break to rejuvenate his body for the latter part of the season.

The former Bombers’ player suggested a tailored month-long conditioning program focused on improving Dixon’s fitness levels, agility, and speed, indicating that Dixon seems to be hampered by issues affecting his mobility.

Lloyd proposed focusing on young talents like Mitch Georgiades, who showcased a standout performance by scoring four goals and securing nine marks in the recent game, and Todd Marshall, who contributed with a goal and four marks.

Pointing out that Dixon’s recent performance follows a pattern of injury management, including being rested and subbed off in various games, Lloyd implied that a strategic temporary break might serve Dixon well in the long term.

Hinkley clarified that Dixon’s substitution during the Carlton game was purely tactical to introduce another tall forward, Jeremy Finlayson, into the match.

Moreover, Hinkley emphasized that Dixon’s removal was not due to an injury concern but rather a strategic decision to explore different playing arrangements during the game.

With Port Adelaide set to have a bye this week, the team is hopeful that small forward Willie Rioli will recover in time to face Greater Western Sydney in the upcoming round 14 clash.