Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley has sung praises for defender Miles Bergman, who played an arguably best-on-ground performance against Carlton on Thursday night, as the 23-year-old continues to improve in a positional change for the Power.
After attempting a run-with role against the Swans last weekend, Bergman was permitted to roam free against the Blues and delivered a stirring effort in the midfield, recording 25 disposals and two goals in the Power's 50-point victory.
Bergman also recorded the second-most clearances for his side and delivered six inside 50s.
Hinkley said Bergman's potential was "untapped", as the out-of-contract defender's value looks set to grow after his latest display.
The Victorian-born product has interest from clubs in his home state, including St Kilda, the Western Bulldogs, and Geelong.
"I think he's untapped. I think he's a really high-talent player who can play anywhere," Hinkley said.
"I mean, he's such a weapon that you could play forward. He can probably play front of centre and hit the scoreboard. Certainly, we know he plays behind the ball really strongly and now, in the last six or eight weeks he's demonstrating that midfield is well and truly within his grasp. I think he's a really good player.
"The other thing I should say is I think he's, he learned a bit last week too. And that's what I love about him.
"I could tell on Monday, Tuesday, when we chatted about little bits and pieces, that he was going to be in a pretty good space this week.
"We understand that if you are a bit crook, it's hard to play this game. I think 'Crippa' (Patrick Cripps) might have been a bit crook coming into this game too. So it's not an easy game to play (when sick)."
Despite Bergman's contract status, Hinkley said he isn't fazed by the patient period waiting for the Power defender's decision.
"It's up to him. He's got every right to take the amount of time he wants to," Hinkley said.
"I think the club have said that all the way through, and they'll support whatever time that is, and give Miles the space that he needs."
The Power move to 7-8 on the season, keeping their finals aspirations alive, with games against Brisbane, West Coast and Hawthorn upcoming next.
