Melbourne coach Steven King has backed in the club's decision to play veteran midfielder Jack Viney despite very limited preparation due to injury.
Viney was recalled to the Demons' side for the Wildcard Final against Carlton on Saturday night. He played a limited role (49 per cent game time) and finished with 13 disposals and four tackles.
King's decision to recall Viney came as a surprise given the former captain hadn't played at the grade all season due to on-going injuries. But it did make sense from a finals experience and heart and soul player perspective.
Speaking after the match in the post-game press conference, King said he backed in his decision to play Viney.
"It's always tough," King said.
"I've said before that the VFL and AFL are different sports. And when you are out for 12 months and walk into a final that's a completely different picture.
"I thought Jack provided a role for us and he played his role coming in as the sub for us, that's always difficult. But I think the opposition certainly knew he was out there. I would have loved for him to put this one under his belt and gone again, but we will have to wait a while now."
Viney was brought into the side after missing the entire AFL home-and-away season due to Achilles and back injuries.
The 32-year-old midfielder played one VFL game in Round 21, collecting 20 disposals and kicking 1.2.
