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North's Tarryn Thomas to be considered for AFL return

3 minute read

North Melbourne caretaker Brett Ratten has confirmed troubled utility Tarryn Thomas is back in the AFL selection mix after showing strong form at VFL level.

BRETT RATTEN.
BRETT RATTEN. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

North Melbourne's troubled utility Tarryn Thomas is on the verge of an AFL return after ticking further boxes in his comeback attempt.

Thomas's career was in the balance after he was stood down by the Kangaroos for a second time in March amid concerns about his behaviour towards women.

The 23-year-old returned to the club's elite program on Monday and impressed with a strong performance in the VFL on Saturday.

Kangaroos caretaker coach Brett Ratten said Thomas will now be considered for senior selection against Collingwood in round 11.

But he will need the green light from club hierarchy before returning to the top level.

"He will come into calculations this week, so we'll have the discussion at match committee," Ratten said.

"We'll just see if he's ready and where it sits from a club point of view as well."

Thomas tallied 26 disposals, nine inside 50s, eight tackles and one goal as North's reserves suffered a 15-point VFL defeat to the Casey Demons on Saturday.

Veteran midfielder Ben Cunnington put his hand up for an AFL recall with 32 disposals and 17 clearances, while Charlie Lazzaro also impressed.

Thomas was charged in January with threatening to distribute an intimate image and faced court in March. The case will return to Broadmeadows Magistrates' Court on July 18.

In February, he faced two counts of violating a court order but those charges were dropped.

In March, North reported further allegations of inappropriate behaviour involving Thomas to the AFL's integrity unit.

Last month, the 57-gamer was fined $5000 by the club, which made him donate a further $5000 to road safety, after posting a video to social media showing him behind the wheel of his drifting Mercedes with his feet on the dashboard.

Thomas is due to face court later this year on an unrelated charge of driving with a suspended licence.

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