GEELONG midfielder Steven Motlop says the Cats' future is really bright as negotiations continue to determine whether he re-signs beyond this season.
The 24-year-old is in demand with reported interest among clubs such as Richmond and Adelaide only growing as the season drags on without his signature, and his form improving in recent weeks.
Best on ground against Greater Western Sydney last Saturday and a key player in the win against the Western Bulldogs in round 16, Motlop turned his season around after being criticised for a lacklustre performance against West Coast in round nine.
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The midfielder says Cats coach Chris Scott made it clear his defensive efforts needed to improve, and Scott in turn says Motlop recognised his effort against the Eagles wasn't up to scratch.
"[That's what] I love about Scotty (Chris Scott). He tells me how it is," Motlop said.
"It's something he has really helped me with and something I have really focused on in the last few weeks. It's definitely been a focus of mine to be a bit more defensive and get a few more tackles.
Motlop had 11 tackles and kicked three goals against the Bulldogs and then had 21 disposals in the first half against the Giants to set up the win.
Although renowned as an outside player, he says he gets more satisfaction these days out of recording a high number of tackles than he does out of kicking a bag of goals.
"Teammates really value the tackles. They're the things they notice," Motlop said.
"What you want is the respect of your teammates and they're the things they value."
Motlop has kicked 20 goals, averaged 3.5 tackles a game and 20 disposals this season.
He describes his form as a bit up and down and admits he's been disappointed to not play as consistently as he hoped.
But anyone watching him kick a snap goal around his body from the 50 metre arc against the Bulldogs was reminded of his ability to do the exceptional.
Motlop says his form is building and the return from injury of stars such as Jimmy Bartel and Mitch Duncan has helped.
But his pen is still not yet on paper and Chris Scott said the club will not be moving outside their TPP (Total Player Payments) model if that is what it takes to accommodate Motlop.
"The club hasn't made an exception in their TPP model for any player [and] given the champions we've had at this club, that is a remarkable achievement. Steve [Motlop] understands that perfectly," Scott said.
Motlop has indicated he'd like to stay with the Cats, but remained coy when asked what factors were playing a part in his decision.
"I'm only in talks with Geelong. My manager is going back and forth with the club and we're trying to work it out now," Motlop said.
One good sign for Cats fans, regardless of what happens, is that Motlop sees a bright future for Geelong.
"I am excited. We have a lot of young boys coming through, like (Nakia) Cockatoo and (Cory) Gregson, if we can help them develop really fast then I think we're a chance. I think our future is really bright," Motlop said.
