Eagle Redden lifts after Simpson pep talk

May 1, 2017 - 6:44 AM West Coast midfielder Jack Redden says a gee up from coach Adam Simpson has played a key role in his recent form reversal.

The Eagles hoped Redden would add extra class to their midfield after luring him from the Lions at the end of 2015.

But the 26-year-old suffered a form slump last season and he didn't live up to Simpson's expectations in the early rounds this year either.

Simpson gave Redden a pep talk before the round-four win over Sydney and it seems to have done the job.

Redden tallied 20 disposals against the Swans and he's followed it up with hard-nosed efforts against Hawthorn and Fremantle.

"I probably wasn't up to scratch," Redden said on Monday.

"He (Simpson) just said we need a little bit more from you. I thought I responded in that Sydney game.

"I've set the bar and that's what I need to get to each week."

Redden hasn't been the only player to struggle to adjust to West Coast's system.

Former Swan Lewis Jetta has also endured a topsy-turvy time since being lured to West Coast.

Jetta was dropped three times last season and he was again axed following the club's round-three loss to Richmond.

The premiership wingman tallied just 17 disposals in the WAFL last weekend and faces a challenge to win back his spot for Saturday's clash with the Power in Adelaide.

West Coast dominated the contested possession battle in last week's 41-point win over Fremantle.

But their form on the road remains a big question mark and they'll have a big point to prove against Port Adelaide.

Ruckman Nathan Vardy (elbow) is set for a stint on the sidelines, leaving Jonathan Giles and Fraser McInnes as the last remaining ruck options.

Midfielder Sam Mitchell looked hampered at times against the Dockers by his recent ankle injury, but Redden is confident the former Hawk will be fit to take on the Power.

"He's a tough little bugger and he's bounced back pretty quick," Redden said.

"He doesn't show much pain and I think he'll get through it."

Redden sung the praises of teammate Elliot Yeo, saying the former Lion possesses some Nat Fyfe-like qualities.

Yeo has enjoyed a hot start to the AFL season, with his strong marking in defence a highlight.

"He can jump into packs and take big clunks," Redden said.

"And when he takes the game on, he's pretty special to watch. There are similarities (to Fyfe) for sure."

Meanwhile, Fyfe escaped with a fine from the Match Review Panel for his elbow to the jaw of Yeo in the derby on Saturday.

Source: AAP