After an injury interrupted first year at the club in 2010, Talia spent three months in rehab earlier this year, struggling with an Achilles injury before returning to South’s reserves a month ago.
The 196cm utility impressed in his first two games and earned a senior call up, where he has performed strongly in defence.
In a glowing report, Craig was delighted to give the young Crow an opportunity after his long stint on the sidelines.
“I’m really pleased for Daniel, he’s got a great work ethic, loves his footy and in terms of preparation, is as good as any in the club,” Craig said.
Talia, who will debut wearing the no.12 guernsey worn previously by Simon Tregenza (106 games) and Robert Shirley (151 games), is likely to have the job on one of Sydney’s key forwards.
‘He’ll play as one of our bigger defenders and get an opportunity to stand some of their bigger forwards,” said Craig
It’s even possible that Talia might find himself alongside Sydney captain Adam Goodes.
“If he (Goodes) plays deep, there is an expectation that he might have to do that, so that will be an experience for him.”
