Kane Cornes has launched a stinging critique of Essendon captain Zach Merrett amid reports the midfielder is eyeing a switch to Hawthorn, declaring any premiership he wins at Waverley Park would “be a cheap one”.
Merrett, still contracted for another two years, has come under fire after allegedly meeting Hawks coach Sam Mitchell while tensions rise at Tullamarine. His reluctance to attend the Bombers’ Best and Fairest night has only intensified speculation about his future.
MORE: Zach Merrett considering nuclear option to escape Essendon
‘Merrett’s gone nuclear’
Speaking on SEN, Cornes accused the 28-year-old of betraying his own commitments. “This is a guy who has moaned about not being paid enough, and the club gives him a long-term deal and more money,” he said. “He has gone on about being a great teammate and changing the standards of the club … and at the first opportunity, he has gone nuclear, absolutely nuclear.”
MORE: Essendon CEO shuts down Merrett trade, questions rival coach's tactics
Cornes argued Merrett was choosing the “easy out” rather than showing leadership. “Even if he goes on to win a premiership at Hawthorn – it will be a cheap one,” he said. “You committed yourself to the club. You publicly stated you would help young players through … what he has done lacks courage, it’s an easy out.”
He also warned that a breakdown in trust within the playing group could leave Merrett without a role. “If 23 teammates come out and say they can’t play with him, then not only can he not captain the club, but he can’t play with them,” Cornes said.
For Cornes, the decision threatens to damage Merrett’s legacy beyond repair: “This from Merrett hurts your reputation significantly.”