Channel 7 sports producers are certain to be on high alert when Geelong’s box-office superstar Bailey Smith joins the network for a cameo role as an AFL analyst.
News broke during the week that Smith and his management were in talks with Channel 7 about a game-analyst role during some AFL matches this year.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Bailey Smith speaks to ‘Roaming Brian’
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Smith, 25, is reportedly keen for people to see another side of him, and show off what club insiders believe is an impressive footy IQ.
And the happy-go-lucky larrikin — who has a reputation for flipping the bird and using colourful language — was certainly excited about the prospect of working on Seven … and gave viewers a sneak peek after the game on Thursday night.
Speaking to star Seven commentator Brian Taylor following the win over Adelaide, Smith — who was best on ground — was definitely in a whimsical mood.
“It was our chat pre-game chat that got me there, mate,” Smith said to BT, referring to his whopping 40 disposals for the match.
Then Smith added: “I’m looking forward to calling the games with ya.”
BT: “Which games are we going to do?”
Smith: “I don’t know. Whatever ones I’m allowed.”
“Special comments man,” an amused Taylor said, before the cheeky Smith quickly signed off with an eyebrow-raising, “I’m keen, f*** yeah.”
Earlier, Smith had spoken to 7NEWS chief sports presenter Rebecca Maddern, and again was at his brazen-faced best.
Asked what he thought when Adelaide hit the lead in the final term, Smith said, “ohh mate”.
“Was scared there for a bit. That’s just a credit to them. They’re a good side. So it was just us always keeping our cool … Danger (captain Patrick Dangerfield) not playing as well, so a lot of the young boys stepping up and showing a bit of leadership.
“But yeah, so it’s always scary.”
Geelong now have a huge 10-day break before they take on Hawthorn in the Easter Monday blockbuster at the MCG, and Smith, who lives on Victoria’s surf coast, said he would take in some of the surfing action from the Rip Curl Pro event at Bells Beach.
“Yeah, I’ll be there. Luncheon tomorrow,” he said.
“Fancy luncheon?” Maddern asked.
Smith: “Not fancy, no. Just sink a bit of piss with the boys. We’ve got Friday, Saturday, Sunday off.
“So will be good to let the hair down and then walk back in for the following Monday.
“The Hawks boys, they’ve got a big break, as well, so we’ll all be feeling good. I’m really looking forward to (the clash).”
