"Almost like Fyfe in his heyday" - Former AFL star says West Coast Eagles talent Harley Reid is already a top-five player in the game

harley Reid
Harley Reid (Image via Getty)

Former premiership Swan Dan Hannebery praised West Coast Eagles' young talent, Harley Reid.

Reid delivered an impressive performance during the Saturday night match between the West Coast Eagles and the Fremantle Dockers, resulting in the Eagles securing a much-needed victory with a score of 105-68 at the Optus Stadium.

Hannebery, who recently appeared on SEN Radio, compared Reid to former Fremantle captain Nat Fyfe, noting that Reid's performance reminded him of Fyfe's stellar display back in 2015.

The 33-year-old former Australian rules footballer said Reid's "burst from stoppage" was "almost like Fyfe in his heyday."

“When Fyfe was absolutely humming in 2015, and won his Brownlows, (Reid) was doing stuff last night that Fyfe was doing back then in my opinion. Some of the marks, his burst from stoppage, it was almost like Fyfe in his hayday," said Hannebery (via The West).

Additionally, Hannebery listed Reid as one of the top 5 players in the game.

“This kid is already a top ten, top five player in the game, and he’s played six weeks. It’s scary to think what he’ll be able to do in the coming months and years," he added.

It is important to note that Harley Reid was the number one pick by the West Coast Eagles in the 2023 AFL draft. For his outstanding performance this season, he earned a nomination for the Rising Star after Round 5 against Richmond.

Meanwhile, speaking of Nat Fyfe, the Lake Grace-born star showcased an exemplary performance in 2015. It was undeniably one of his best seasons. Recording 31 disposals, along with one goal and 7 inside fifties in Round 1, he secured a victory against Port Adelaide. He was awarded the Brownlow Medal in 2015 for his outstanding game throughout the season.


A quick recap of Harley Reid's performance in the 2024 AFL season

So far, in the 2024 season, Harley Reid has played six games and recorded five goals. Touted as the No.1 pick in the 2023 draft, undoubtedly, fans have high hopes for him, and the rising star has maintained a good pace to start his career.

His top performance of the season was recorded in the match against Richmond in Round 5. Reid has been impressive, with an average of 18.2 disposals this season.

Prior to being selected by West Coast Eagles, Harley Reid played for Tongala Football Club and also represented Victoria Country.