ADELAIDE may consider selecting first-round draft pick Jake Lever to make his debut against Gold Coast on Saturday, fellow defender Daniel Talia says.
Lever, last year’s No.14 pick overall, could be brought in to add height to the Crows’ backline after it was found out against Port Adelaide on Sunday.
Crows coach Phil Walsh conceded his side lacked a tall defender against the Power, with Talia's role on Patrick Ryder allowing Jay Schulz to dominate Kyle Cheney and kick five goals.
When isolated, the inexperienced Jake Kelly struggled to contain Justin Westhoff.
Lever, an aggressive 194cm defender, slid down the draft order after a knee reconstruction ruined his 2014 season.
The 19-year-old played his best game of the year in the SANFL at the weekend - collecting 26 disposals and six rebound 50s loose across half-back – showcasing his impressive agility and speed for a player of his size.
Crows full back Talia believes Lever is ready for his first AFL opportunity this weekend.
"I've been doing a lot of work with 'Jakey' - he's obviously an impressive young backman and is probably a key defender who will be in the mix this week," Talia said.
"He played really well in the SANFL … Jake's been impressive from the first day he walked into the club, (with) his attitude and professionalism and the way he wants to improve.
"He's got a good mix actually, he's kind of a tall defender who can shut a guy down but who can also run off and get the ball.
"You always want a guy who can compete and Jake's certainly one of those guys."
After Sunday's 24-point loss to the Power, Talia said the Crows would focus on improving their skills before taking on the Suns.
Adelaide's inefficiency and inaccuracy played a key role in the the defeat, with players unable to sustain any scoreboard pressure on the Power.
Talia couldn't offer much in the way of an update on star midfielder Rory Sloane, who was subbed out of the Crows' loss with a corked calf.
He'll be managed through the week but appeared to be walking unhindered on Monday morning.
