Starcevich praises young Eagles talent

New West Coast Eagles recruit Brandon Starcevich has expressed his excitement about returning to Perth and linking up with his new teammates.

The 26-year-old backman has just signed a four-year deal with the Eagles, after eight seasons, 132 games and back-to-back premierships with the Lions.

“I'm really excited to head back to WA and be around family and friends, but also really excited to be a part of such a great footy club,” Starcevich said.

“There’s a bit of relief now, it’s nice that it’s all over and done with and I can sort of have a bit of time off and relax.”

Playing juniors with Mt Lawley-Inglewood Junior Football Club before a Colts stint with East Perth in the WAFL, Starcevich is no stranger the WA football landscape and is looking forward to suiting up with his new teammates.

“I played a bit of footy with Jake Waterman and Liam Baker back in the day, so it'd be good to catch up with those two and play together again,” Starcevich said.

“The Eagles have a lot of young talent, which is really exciting, and it’s hard to pick out just a few but obviously Harley Reid, he’s a superstar and I’m keen to play alongside of him.

“I’ve never had to play against him, which is probably a good thing for me.

“And down back, Reuben Ginbey is a real competitor, so I’m excited to line up alongside those guys down there as well.”

Starcevich landed at West Coast in a three-way trade involving the Lions and Fremantle, which also sees the Eagles receive picks 12, 33 and 52 in this year’s Telstra AFL Draft while parting with selections 16, 22 and 23.

The Eagles currently hold selections No. 1, 12, 33, 37, 52 and 57 in next month’s national draft with a week remaining in the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period, powered by Tyrepower.

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