PERTH, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 30: Connor Blakely of the Dockers kicks the ball during the 2019 AFL round 15 match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Carlton Blues at Optus Stadium on June 30, 2019 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Fremantle are heading into Round 16 sitting in the top four with ten wins under their belt, but one seemingly forgotten Docker is stuck in the abyss.

Connor Blakely was delisted by Fremantle at the conclusion of the 2021 season, but re-signed as a rookie, alongside Mitch Crowden.

The 26-year-old played his last senior game in Round 22 last season, yet to feature for Justin Longmuir this year as he becomes an unfortunate casualty of Fremantle's ascent up the ladder.

Playing in the WAFL, Blakely has averaged 27 disposals per game, and was impressive for Fremantle over the weekend on his return from a finger injury.

Speaking on Sportsday, league great Gerard Healy explained that the out-of-favour Docker should be exploring other options come 2023, after impressive form in the WAFL but no AFL opportunity.

“What about the forgotten man in footy?” Healy said.

“He (Blakely) needs to go to another club next year.”

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 12: Connor Blakely of the Dockers looks to pass the ball during the round eight AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and the St Kilda Saints at Optus Stadium on May 12, 2018 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Healy also mentioned fellow Docker Mitch Crowden, who like Blakely, has found himself out of favour. The 23-year-old has been named as the medical substitute on two occasions this year, but is yet to play any actual game time after 16 matches in 2021.

“Two years ago, he was one of the best running half-backs in the game,” Healy said about Crowden.

“They’ve got good depth in their squad.”

Fremantle are primed to make an appearance in September this season despite a tightening finals race, keeping Carlton out of the top four on percentage alone.

The Dockers are set to host Port Adelaide at Optus Stadium in Round 16, followed by clashes with St Kilda, Sydney and Richmond.