AFL legend Matthew Lloyd explains why Carlton is poised for a major leap in 2020
AFL legend Matthew Lloyd has suggested Carlton could be the next Richmond after the Blues' stunning resurgence under new coach David Teague.
The Blues were mired at the bottom of the ladder when coach Brendon Bolton was sacked mid-season, but since Teague's appointment, the Blues have been one of the AFL's form sides.
Speaking on Footy Classified, Lloyd said the league's "sleeping giant" could easily leap into the finals next season.
"This to me is Richmond of five-six years ago," he said.
"I thought to myself back then, if Richmond can get it right on the field, they'll come from the woodwork. I feel like that's where Carlton are at the moment.
Carlton has been a totally different team since David Teague took over the coaching role AAP
"They're excited, they're loving football again. I think they can play finals next year.
"They've got seven wins at the moment, I think they can jump to 12-13 wins next year."
If Carlton is to take a leap, it will need to nail it's off-season recruitment, and Lloyd said the club was more than a 50-50 chance to land all three of Stephen Coniglio, Tom Papley and Jack Martin.
"I'm thinking they are a massive chance, more than a 50-50 chance of landing all three of those players there," he said.
"With that what they've got is experience at the top end who are playing extremely well and their youth is as good as any team.
"I'm excited and I'm sure the Carlton fans are. I think seven to 12 wins, they are fully capable of."
