Essendon stalwart Jordan Lewis believes the club is no longer forced to “overpay” players because to the uncertainty surrounding the futures of star midfielder Darcy Parish and others.
Despite the fact that the Bombers’ season is officially ended following Friday night’s 70-point loss to Collingwood, Parish remains unsigned due to a wage deadlock just weeks after Essendon offered a five-year contract to him.
According to reports this week, the two parties have a $500,000 difference of opinion, despite the fact that the free agent has already declared his desire to remain with the Bombers.
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Lewis, speaking on Fox Footy, urged Essendon to stick to their contract offer for the sake of the club.
“It’s a tough decision (on Parish),” Hawk, a four-time premiership winner, said.
“I believe Essendon have reached a point where they no longer need to overpay players.”
“Parish has been there for quite some time.” If he’s dedicated and you sell the vision, you pay him exactly what he’s worth. If he doesn’t agree, you’re free to let him leave.
“We’ve seen it time and time again when clubs pay too much for one player, the rest of the bottom end falls away.”
The 26-year-old, who was an All-Australian in 2021, returned to form.
