TRIPLE Albury premiership star Elliott Powell has left the door ajar for a return to the Albury Sportsground.
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The Tigers released Powell to Dederang-Mt Beauty on Thursday after he requested a return to his junior club last week.
Coach Damien Jones said the Bombers were fortunate to gain Powell and were fully aware he still had a lot to offer at O&M level.
"We touched base with Albury and it's a huge relief that they have cleared him so quickly and both parties can now focus on the season ahead without the distraction," Jones said.
"Elliott has indicated he will probably return to Albury at some stage and I will be encouraging that as well.
"But this season is about Elliott enjoying his football and being happy again on a personal front.
"Elliott is excited to be returning to his home club and it's the best fit for him this season."
I don't want to put too much pressure on him but I expect him to be the best player in the comp by a mile.
- Damien Jones
Powell is regarded in the top echelon of players in the O&M and finished runner-up in the Morris medal last year.
Jones said he expected Powell to prove a class above at the lower level of the Tallangatta and District league.
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"I don't want to put too much pressure on him but I expect Elliott to be the best player in the competition by a mile," he said.
"I rate him one of the best players in the O&M.
"As a first year coach I'm pretty lucky to have him and his experience will also benefit our young list.
"I think Albury was just starting to see the best of him last year as he spent more time in the midfield.
"So I expect him to dominate at Dederang considering he is only 26 and probably just starting to realise the peak of his powers.
"We are lucky to get him this season - that's for sure."
Jones said Powell would play in the midfield.
"I know he spent a lot of time forward for Albury," he said.
"But he can score from anywhere and will be playing in the midfield."
