Carlton icon Anthony Koutoufides believes Patrick Cripps is “harshly” judged at times with the star Blue coming in for criticism at various stages this season.
Cripps, who is yet to re-sign with Carlton and is eligible for free agency this year, hasn’t quite been at his best in 2021 but Koutoufides launched a staunch defence of the Blues co-captain.
“What a wonderful player. He carried the club for three years and everyone was saying he’s going to be a Brownlow Medallist one day,” the Carlton great told SEN’s Dwayne’s World.
“I think he was the best player in the comp for two or three years ago. He’s shown really good form in the last four weeks and I’m glad for him.
“He loves the club and people think he’s going to go back to Perth. I think he’s a Carlton person. He gives his heart and soul to that club.
“I think he’s harshly questioned at times. I think he’s been a wonderful leader at that football club.”
Koutoufides was asked about the Carlton captaincy and whether young star Sam Walsh should be given the top job.
“I wouldn’t at this stage. I think Cripps and (Sam) Docherty are doing a wonderful job,” he said.
“We always criticise when things aren’t going well. You can see their leadership qualities.
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“Walsh is an unbelievable player. To do what he’s done already in 50 games, you don’t often find players like that, he’s a blessing for us.
“He could easily do it. I just don’t see what the captains now are doing wrong.”
Carlton confirmed on Tuesday that it will conduct a mid-season football department review following Sunday’s loss to West Coast.
The 14th-placed Blues sit 4-8 and look unlikely to make the finals under coach David Teague.