Geelong drops Sam De Koning for Carlton elimination final on Friday

Geelong has dropped key defender Sam De Koning for Friday's elimination final against Carlton and recalled midfielder Max Holmes instead.

Why it mattersDe Koning's absence weakens Geelong's defence in a knockout match. The selection gamble could decide whether the Cats' season continues.

AustraliaVictorian AFL clubs' finals outcomes affect the league structure and Victorian football dominance in finals series.

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De Koning loses spot ahead of Carlton elimination final

Geelong drops its 25-year-old premiership defender despite 19 games this season. Trade talk has swirled around him despite a year left on his contract.

Why it mattersA player dropped from finals signals the coach's priorities and raises questions about his future at the club.

A bald man in a Port Adelaide AFL staff polo shirt stands on the sideline holding papers, in conversation with other team personnel.

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Nicks given no job guarantee ahead of Crows final

Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks says he has no job guarantee. If the Crows lose Saturday's elimination final against the Western Bulldogs, his future is uncertain.