Ex-Magpie Fin Macrae has admitted he was “frustrated” by his lack of senior opportunities at Collingwood at times as he looks to capitalise on an AFL lifeline at West Coast.

Macrae was delisted by Collingwood following 21 AFL games over five seasons including no senior appearances this year after joining the club with Pick 19 in the 2020 National Draft.

The 23-year old will hope to revive his career at the Eagles after earning a spot on their rookie list along with former Lion Deven Robertson and ex-Crow Harry Schoenberg in extra list spots given to the wooden spooners as part of the AFL’s assistance package.

Watch the biggest Aussie sports & the best from overseas LIVE on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.

WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.

Macrae says the parting message from Collingwood coach Craig McRae was to seize his new opportunity after he struggled to crack into the Magpies’ experienced side.

“It was just about putting my best foot forward and when the opportunity comes, try to take it,” Macrae told SEN WA Breakfast.

“There was probably a fair few really good players and experienced players ahead of me at different times. I didn’t quite get the opportunity I was after in extended periods.

“But I’m really excited to be at West Coast and I feel I’ve still got a lot more to offer in my AFL career. Really excited about the young group here and what I can bring to that team.

“There were definitely times playing VFL in the last few years where I was getting a bit frustrated playing forward or out on the fat side wing at times.

“But in the long run that’s definitely helped me and shaped me as a better player. Wherever the Eagles want, I’m more than happy to play.”

Fin Macrae in action against West Coast (Pic: Michael Klein)Source: News Corp Australia

Macrae, the half-brother of Saints midfielder Jack, has only completed two training session with the Eagles as he begins life out west.

Originally drafted as a midfielder, Macrae said West Coast coach Andrew McQualter flagged he’d play on the ball, the wing and across half-forward.

“I spoke to ‘Mini’ (McQualter) when I came over a month and a bit ago, that was the spot he flagged a bit of interest for me and where he could see me playing,” the former first-round pick added.

“I’m training a bit as a forward and a mid at the moment. We’ve only had two sessions, so still a long way to go, but that’s where I’ve been trying my hand a bit.”

‘Jumping before he is pushed’ | 04:42

The additions of Macrae, Robertson and Schoenberg continue an overhaul of West Coast’s list as it continues to rebuild under McQualter following just one win in his first season as coach.

First-round draftees Willem Duursma, Cooper Duff-Tytler and Josh Lindsay were among the youngsters to join the club last week after dual premiership Lion Brandon Starcevich arrived in the trade period and Oscar Allen and others departed.

“It’s very exciting. ‘Mini’ sort of spoke about the depth he’s after,” Macrae continued.

“Probably what we’ve got this year, compared to previous years, it’s been a big turnover.

“There’s about 10 or 12 new guys this year, so it is a very exciting time. From all reports, the energy in the group is a bit different to what it was this time last year.”

The Eagles are bullish about what Macrae can add to their group.

“Fin has consistently performed at a high level in the state league and has always been right in the mix for senior opportunities,” West Coast list manager Matt Clarke said.

“He’s a really good athlete and a strong transition runner. A great person and a genuine pro who will lift the standards of the group.”