WAYNE Carey's remarks that Greater Western Sydney will be "extinct" predictably drew the ire of Giants officials such as chief executive David Matthews.
But the players? Not so much.
Giants defender Heath Shaw said on Thursday that living in Sydney, the players tended not to hear much of the negative chatter about the Giants.
He told AFL.com.au's First Bounce that the plan for the Giants was simple – win games and the support will come.
"We're building a club, we're four years in and we had a bit of success last year with six wins and the more wins we get the more support we will have.
"Out in the west, there's a lot of people waiting to jump on an AFL team and with wins comes support.
"We have to put the hard yards in, especially this year and if we get a few more wins, we'll gain support and well be here for a very long time," he said.
A key to this will be the addition of experienced duo Ryan Griffen and Joel Patfull, both best and fairest winners at their former clubs.
"There are times in games when things might be going bad and you just need a level head, someone who has been there and done it. Having those two come in will be great for the group," Shaw said.
"Also with the experience the younger guys have gained in four years, they're growing and growing in leadership and experience so that helps as well."
The former Collingwood player said he is ready for games after completing about "95 per cent" of the pre-season. He will play his first game for the year in Friday night's NAB Challenge clash with Essendon at Spotless Stadium.
"I've done a lot of work and been able to manage myself really well. I feel fresh and the body is in good shape," he said.