Last year’s Carji Greeves medallist Cam Guthrie says he is more focussed on the GWS Giants than “thinking about the past” ahead of his 200th game on Friday night.
“[I have] got my mind on the job tomorrow, and one eye on what’s ahead,” he told a press conference yesterday.
“I’ll take the weekend to catch up with some friends and family and really think about the previous 200 games.”
Friday night’s clash with the Giants is vital as the Cats look to secure a top two spot for a home qualifying final to give them the best chance at a premiership, after last year’s heartbreak against Richmond.
“I think we’ve got the potential to do it,” Guthrie said.
“Realising that potential and accomplishing something together would be massive for our team, but also the wider community, with everything that’s happened the last couple of years.”
The 28-year-old midfielder indicated he wanted to remain at the Cats following speculation about contract negotiations earlier this year.
“We’re working towards an outcome at the moment that I think both parties will be really pleased with,” he said.
“I’ve made it a priority to play really good footy and let that take care of itself. It was on my mind a little bit earlier in the year.
“But coming into finals, it’s much more exciting to think about playing footy and realising a goal and a dream with the team, rather than thinking about a couple of pieces of paper.
“I think we’re on the right track.”
But he declined to confirm if and when he would sign a contract extension.
“I’m not sure of the exact timeline yet,” Guthrie said.
“We’ll see how it plays out. We’re working hard to reach an agreement that both sides are happy with, and I’m hoping that will be soon.”
Cats coach Chris praised the All-Australian midfielder on Wednesday.
“He and I arrived at Geelong at the same time,” he said.
“He’s probably evolved from a back initially to a bit of run-with type midfielder, who evolved again to an attacking midfielder.
“He’s always based his game on defence and the contest, which is the thing I like about him the most.”
