LIAM Ryan is officially a St Kilda player after the Saints did a deal with West Coast on Thursday.
In return for losing Ryan, the Eagles will get St Kilda’s 2026 second-round pick, while West Coast’s 2027 third-round pick will go to the Saints.
Ryan’s arrival comes less than an hour after the Saints withdrew their interest in defender Leek Aleer from Greater Western Sydney, despite him requesting a trade.
The Saints have already signed free agents Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni and well as Sam Flanders from Gold Coast.
Ryan has played 125 games in West Coast colours after arriving at the club via pick No.26 in the 2017 draft.
The forward kicked 22 goals in 20 matches this year and was part of the Eagles’ premiership win in 2018. He was named in the 2020 All-Australian team after kicking 26 goals in 18 games that year.
“There’s a great energy about this group, and you can feel the hunger to improve and do something great,” Ryan said.
“I want to bring my experience and help spark the forward line but also keep learning and pushing myself to be the best I can for the team.”
St Kilda CEO Carl Dilena said Ryan’s recruitment was an exciting addition to the Saints’ mix.
“Liam is a proven match-winner with unique talent. His aerial ability, creativity and football instincts make him a player fans love to watch and teammates love to play with,” Dilena said.
“Just as importantly, he is a respected First Nations leader in the AFL. His experience and voice will further strengthen our club’s proud commitment to First Nations programs and to creating an environment where players can thrive both on and off the field.”
Ryan was contracted with the Eagles for next season but requested a trade to the Saints.
“While we are disappointed to lose Liam, we are incredibly proud of everything he has achieved with our Club over the past eight years,” Eagles footy boss John Worsfold said.
“Liam delivered some unforgettable moments for our members and fans, and he will always hold a special place in our club’s history for his part in the match-winning chain of possession in the 2018 Grand Final.
“He grew to become a terrific leader amongst our First Nations players, and we will miss his unique energy around the Club.”
