Exciting youngster Jase Burgoyne could be set to spend more time playing in Port Adelaide's defence after an outstanding performance against Essendon on Thursday night.
Despite a disappointing loss to the Bombers, the 21-year-old was one the Power's shining lights, gathering 27 disposals, 10 marks and eight intercept possessions.
With a couple of Port's regular defenders missing due to injury, Burgoyne made the switch to the backline and looked right at home with his sublime ball use and ability to read the play.
The Power's defensive coach Tyson Goldsack praised Burgoyne's versatility and said he would always be happy to have him down back.
"He played 100 per cent game time for us at half back, which is no easy feat, and did a really good job," Goldsack told media.
"He used the ball really well so like I said, I'm happy to have him if I get the chance.
"But he plays some really good games on the wing as well, so it's whatever the team needs and balance of the team needs, and he's happy to do that, which is great."
Goldsack said Burgoyne's excellent endurance was a factor in switching him to defence.
"We knew that (Jase) could run long minutes, and we've got say, Josh Sinn and Kane Farrell who are still kind of working towards their best," he said
"So we needed that for the rotation point of view, and getting the minutes required in defence – Jase was an easy fix for us.
"Now, are we robbing Peter to pay Paul, putting him in defence? Maybe, but maybe not, because Christian (Moraes) was really good for us (on the wing)."
Impressively, the Kokatha, Larrakia and Warai man used the ball at a 96 per cent efficiency, highlighting a strength he has possessed since a junior player.
"I think I've always been pretty composed, even through juniors," Burgoyne told The Advertiser.
"When I get the ball, I don't feel too rushed, I take my time and make my decision.
"It's a weapon of mine and that's why they trust me with the ball in hand, but I'm just doing my thing for the team.
"It's probably instinct – you can't really teach it – and probably my genes as well."
Burgoyne follows in the footsteps of his grandfather Peter Sr., who played in the SANFL in the late 1970s, and his father Peter, a member of the club's 2004 premiership team.
Thursday night was Burgoyne's second consecutive excellent performance after gathering 32 disposals and two goals in the Power's big win over Richmond a fortnight ago.
Despite attracting plenty of rival interest, the utility says he wishes to remain at Alberton Oval.
"I've had a brief conversation with my manager and he's said whenever I feel comfortable (re-signing)," Burgoyne said, The Advertiser reports.
"I'm sure it will be pretty soon though, I'd love to (stay at Port Adelaide), they gave me the chance to live out my boyhood dream.
"I've loved being at the club, going into my fourth year now."
