Adelaide Crows great Taylor 'Tex' Walker provided fans an insight into just how valued fourth-year defender Max Michalanney is at Westlakes.
Speaking to Triple M in Adelaide on Tuesday morning, Walker earmarked the emerging utility as a captain in waiting, such is his play, and his character.
“(I) love him," Walker said.
"He's an absolute A-grade human; I love 'Maxy'. One of those guys who, when he runs on the field, you never have to worry about him, because he just gets his stuff done," he added.
"I reckon he's up there with one of our best leaders, with the potential to be the next skipper of the club, whenever ‘Daws' decides to call it. (He) always sets a high standard in games and at training. Everyone loves him - he can build relationships up, he can build relationships down, and he's just an exceptional kid."
Michalanney has been exceptional for Matthew Nicks, since being taken as a father-son selection in the first round of the 2022 National Draft. Predominantly playing off half back, the reliable, soon-to-be 22-year-old has played 66 of a possible 71 games since being drafted, speaking to his durability.
Despite Walker's glowing praise, Michalanney was not included in the Crows' leadership group for the 2026 campaign, announced on Tuesday morning.
Skipper Jordan Dawson returns to the role for a fourth season, while critical cogs Ben Keays and Alex Neal-Bullen will serve as his deputies.
Key position commodities Reilly O'Brien and Darcy Fogarty will also return as leaders this year, with Isaac Cumming and Riley Thilthorpe rounding out the group as first-time inclusions.
The Crows announced this week that Michalanney, a "composed and reliable presence" in their defence, had re-signed for another four years, tying him to his boyhood club until the end of 2030.
Crows list manager Justin Reid added to the chorus of those praising Michalanney in the wake of his extension.
"Max is not only a great young player but also a natural leader in the way he prepares, competes and connects with his teammates," he said.
"His commitment to the club reinforces the belief and trust he has in our direction and what we are building together."
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