Sydney coach John Longmire has dismissed speculation around Lance Franklin's future at the club, admitting that the Swans veteran has the right to make the call on if, and where, he plays in 2023.
Reports last week suggested that Franklin was readying for a move north to join the Lions, prompting the Franklin camp to release a statement that the 35-year-old would be putting off contract talks until after the season.
โIโm still undecided and need time after the season to make a family decision about whether I continue to play next year,โ Franklin said.
Speaking after Sydney's 38-point win over North Melbourne, Longmire confirmed that the Swans would support their superstar forward despite his contract call.
"He's playing well," Longmire said.
"I just think we've got to enjoy it for what it is, that's probably the way I look at it. He's been brilliant to watch for so long โฆ let's enjoy it.
"He played good footy.
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"He'll make that call at the end of the year and he's got that right. He's been playing for such a long time and given the game so much. Sometimes we can look into things and want answers in black and white โฆ sometimes you've just got to sit back and enjoy the moment with him and see him play his footy and do his stuff."
The Swans sit inside the top four with just two rounds of home and away footy remaining, next set to face the Magpies in Round 22. With Collingwood on an 11-game winning streak, Longmire is expecting a heated clash on Sunday afternoon.
"They're the red-hot team in the competition โ them and Geelong. Their ability to just keep winning has been extraordinary this year," Longmire said.
"It's a big game next week. They're playing with real speed and power and they're able to keep going. And they've obviously got the belief in themselves, as well, so we look forward to it."
Sydney will host Collingwood at the SCG on Sunday, set to begin at 3:20pm AEST.
