Essendon great Tim Watson says the criticism of Joe Daniher's on-field actions is ridiculous.
Daniher, who kicked 1.6 on the weekend against Melbourne, was seen sharing a laugh and hugging former teammate and current Melbourne defender, Michael Hibberd, during the match.
Daniher has copped plenty of criticism for his actions, with many calling on him to be more focused on the game and labelling it a bad look.
Bombers' coach John Worsfold dismissed the hug as nothing serious, while club champion Tim Watson said the attention the incident has received has been "exhaustive".
“He can hug as many people as he wants if he’s playing good footy,” Worsfold said.
“If that was influencing his ability to perform, then I would expect he wouldn’t be doing it.
“I think we’ve got to give these young men some credit for their maturity and understanding.”
Watson said seeing Daniher's personality is refreshing.
“The attention afforded to footballers’ on-field behaviour is exhaustive. The state budget will not receive the same amount of forensic analysis,” he said on SEN Breakfast.
“Joe Daniher dared to smile at the weekend and hugged an old mate in Michael Hibberd.
“It’s a crime to show that you’re enjoying yourself out there. We hear constant criticism of dull, boring, mechanical AFL players who show no personality.
“The moment we see an individual show a degree of difference, none of which was undisciplined or detrimental to his own performance or team, we want to howl him down.
“Joe is a happy, easy-going young man. He’s super competitive when it counts and he may just believe that, lo and behold, what he is doing is playing a game.”
However, on-air co-host Garry Lyon was heavily critical of Daniher, who had kicked six behind up until half-time.
“I didn’t like it at all,” Lyon said. “After half-time you’ve gone in and had some introspection. Hopefully got your head ripped off at some stage.
“I don’t reckon hugging Michael Hibberd and laughing would have been high on my priority list.
“Is that attitude holding him back? His kicking has been poor since day one. That happy go lucky attitude that he carries in with him, is that affecting his kicking?"
