Oscar Allen said the change of scenery at Brisbane already feels “different but exciting” as he prepares for life in new colours following his high-profile move from West Coast.
The 25-year-old key forward, who left Perth to join the reigning premiers through free agency, becomes the Lions’ major attacking addition after Joe Daniher’s retirement at the end of 2024.
The deal, one of the most anticipated of the year, saw West Coast receive Pick 2 as compensation after losing their co-captain, a player once considered central to their rebuild. Allen, however, insists his focus is now on contributing to Brisbane’s next chapter.
Ready to lead from the front
“They’re such a mature senior group here at Brissie who have had a lot of success, so I just want to help that in any way I can, and really contribute to going forward at the football club,” Allen said. “It feels different in new colours, but I’m super excited about it.”
He’ll link up with Eric Hipwood, Logan Morris and Ty Gallop in a forward line already boasting two premiership players. For Allen, the prospect of complementing that mix, while adding his own leadership, is what drives him.
“When you look at the talent that they have there and also the calibre of the young players who are probably still growing into the game, to see what they've been able to achieve the last couple of years from afar has been outstanding,” he said.
“I'm hoping to add to that in any way I can — a little bit of leadership potentially in the front half as well, and then off-field, just to be a part of the culture.”