Shut up for a bit Aker

by LES EVERETT
JASON Akermanis has become a dynamic footballer.

Not so long ago he was just one of a number of running defenders - vital but not unique in the modern game.

But in recent seasons he's graduated to the midfield and is not out of place in the company of Michael Voss, Simon Black and Nigel Lappin. Few players have ever been able to kick either foot with such force and accuracy.

Aker also seems to be an interesting sort of a bloke.

He's not afraid to speak his mind and as followers of the game where media-trained players learn early how to say nothing - even if they had nothing to say in the first place - we should welcome those who are different.

But Aker needs to make sure he's got his mind in order before he pipes up.

His post-grand final bleat about the umpires was simply stupid and added to a perception he's losing his verbal touch.

It would be sad if he went the way of Mark Jackson who, believe it or not, once said interesting things.

Jason Akermanis. Great with either foot but losing it with the gob. Photo by Lil Topic

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