SYDNEY Swans coach John Longmire has backed Lewis Jetta to rebound from a horror Grand Final performance and play a key role replacing Nick Malceski across half-back this season.
Jetta was one of a number of young Swans to disappoint against Hawthorn in last year's decider, and he has said he was embarrassed by his four-possession game.
The 25-year-old could play a key role in the Swans' quest for this year's premiership however, with Longmire earmarking him as an option to take over from Malceski, who was an All Australian half-back last year.
While Jetta's ball-use is a noted strength, Longmire said it was awareness and ability to direct teammates that would make him an asset in the new role.
"We've trialled him there at different points this pre-season and he's adapted well," Longmire told AFL.com.au.
"He's composed, he's very smart and there's a lot of things we've picked up in our review meetings that he's actually picked up on the ground and told players where to go.
"He's a very smart footballer and he's very well respected in our team for knowing what's going on and being able to deliver on it.
"He sees the game really well, so I can see him rotating through there quite often."
The loss of Malceski to Gold Coast cannot be overstated, given he is coming off a career-best season that saw him lead the AFL for metres gained.
Longmire trialled his options for the position, including midfielder Jarrad McVeigh, during a recent training camp to Coffs Harbour where Jetta was used in the backline alongside versatile tall Sam Reid.
The Swans have been keen to move on this summer from their 63-point loss to the Hawks, and Longmire has had a clear message for those who didn't deliver on the big stage.
"You can't do much about it now, it's about making sure you get to work, have a good pre-season and address it that way," the coach said.
"There's no point reflecting on it too much. Moving forward pretty quickly is the best way of getting on with things."
Other young Swans who performed below expectations against Hawthorn were Gary Rohan (seven possessions), Harry Cunningham (nine) and Jake Lloyd (11).
Longmire, however, was quick to point out that a number of senior players were unhappy with their performance.
He paid tribute to the Hawks, who were much more physical than their opponents.
"They were good in that area, but it doesn't matter what we say about it now it's about what we do and our actions," Longmire said.
"Football tests your resilience and your ability to bounce back, and the good players bounce back consistently well."
