In a surprising turn of events, John Noble, the former Collingwood defender who was traded to the Gold Coast Suns during the 2024 AFL Trade Period, has been delisted by the Suns. Reports indicate that Noble is now eyeing a return to Collingwood for the 2025 season, a move that could position him as one of the most valuable players in the league.John Noble’s JourneyJohn Noble’s AFL career began in 2019 when he was selected by Collingwood in the mid-season draft. Over the next few years, he established himself as a reliable defender, known for his speed, agility, and consistent performances. By the end of the 2023 season, Noble had become an integral part of Collingwood’s backline, contributing significantly to their defensive strategies.However, in a move that surprised many, Noble requested a trade to the Gold Coast Suns in late 2024, citing family reasons as the primary motivation for his decision. Despite being contracted with Collingwood until the end of 2026, the club respected his wishes and facilitated the trade. Stint with the Gold Coast SunsNoble’s time with the Suns was brief. He joined the team with the hope of making a significant impact and bringing his experience to a developing squad. Unfortunately, his tenure was short-lived, and he was delisted by the Suns after just one season. The reasons behind this decision remain unclear, but it has opened the door for Noble to consider a return to his former club.Potential Return to CollingwoodThe possibility of Noble returning to Collingwood has generated considerable excitement among fans and analysts alike. His familiarity with the club’s culture, coupled with his proven track record, makes him a valuable asset. Collingwood’s coach, Craig McRae, has yet to provide a clear update on whether Noble could make a return to the club for the 2025 season. Speculation about a potential reunion has grown, given Noble’s strong connection to the Magpies and his popularity among teammates and supporters. Impact on Collingwood’s 2025 ProspectsIf Noble does return to Collingwood, his presence could significantly bolster the team’s defensive lineup. His experience and skills would provide additional depth and flexibility, allowing the coaching staff to implement more dynamic defensive strategies. Moreover, Noble’s leadership qualities and familiarity with the club’s systems could serve as a stabilizing force, particularly for younger players.League-Wide ImplicationsNoble’s potential return to Collingwood also has broader implications for the AFL. His journey underscores the unpredictable nature of player movements within the league and highlights the importance of adaptability for both players and clubs. Furthermore, if Noble can regain his form and make a significant impact upon his return, it could set a precedent for other players considering similar moves in the future.ConclusionJohn Noble’s delisting from the Gold Coast Suns and the prospect of his return to Collingwood is a developing story that has captured the attention of the AFL community. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Noble to see how this next chapter in his career unfolds and what it means for both him and the league as a whole.
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