Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks says he stands alongside Taylor Walker and has vowed to “make a difference” after one of the toughest periods in his coaching career.
Walker was suspended for six games after an AFL investigation revealed he’d uttered a racial slur to former Saint Robbie Young during a SANFL game earlier this year.
His apology was accepted by Young, and the Crows veteran took time away from the club during his suspension but did attend the club’s best and fairest count.
Nicks says Walker is “a really good person” and the two will work together to make a positive difference.
“It’s a really complex situation, I don’t think the majority of people understand the significance of it,” Nicks told SEN SA Breakfast.
“We all make mistakes; I sit right alongside Taylor and we’ve worked through a really tough period.
“It sounds wrong and horrible, but I think we have an opportunity now to make a difference.
“Taylor’s done some incredible work in the last couple of months, and we’re going to make a difference in this space.”
Despite having the back of his club’s former captain, Nicks admits he can’t guarantee if the Walker will be ready for the first day of Adelaide’s pre-season.
“I’d be lying if I said he was (locked in),” Nicks said.
“He’s still got a lot that he wants to work through, and a lot of things he feels he needs to do.”
“There’s stuff that’s a priority for him at the moment, and that’s not talking about footy in 2022.”
Nicks’ Crows are the equal youngest team in the AFL, meaning Walker’s experience is invaluable to Adelaide.
It’s a large part of the reason why the young coach would love to see Walker line up again in 2022.
“From a coach, I really want him at the club next year,” he said.
“He’s one of the most important and experienced players we have, so I want him to be there, but we’ll support whatever he decides.”
The 31-year old had a strong return to form in 2021, kicking 48 goals from his 17 games.