Errol Gulden Expresses Readiness for Sydney Swans Captaincy Ahead of Preliminary Final

Sydney Swans midfielder Errol Gulden has declared he is prepared to step up as interim captain following an injury to regular skipper Callum Mills during the team's finals campaign. Mills suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee late in the first quarter of Sydney's 141-88 victory over the Brisbane Lions, an injury that could sideline him for the entire 2027 season.

Gulden, a 24-year-old two-time All-Australian, emerged as a central figure in the qualifying final win, recording 34 disposals, eight clearances, and a notable goal against the Lions. Addressing the potential leadership vacancy, Gulden indicated he would welcome the responsibility if called upon by coach Dean Cox as Sydney prepares for an upcoming preliminary final against Fremantle at the SCG.

Leadership Options and Squad Challenges

Beyond Gulden, Sydney's coaching staff has several experienced options available to take over on-field leadership, including former co-captain Dane Rampe, veteran defender Jake Lloyd, midfielder James Rowbottom, and forward Tom Papley. Whoever is selected could maintain a significant leadership role into the next season given the projected length of Mills' recovery.

The captaincy change comes amid broader selection constraints for the Swans, who are currently playing without five suspended squad members. Vice-captain Isaac Heeney, alongside Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon, and Riley Bice, were ruled out for the remainder of the season due to club-imposed bans following a post-match incident at Melbourne's Pullman Hotel last month.

Finals Push and Recent Match Results

Reflecting on the team's circumstances, Gulden noted that the qualifying final victory was the most rewarding performance of his six-season career with the club. Having previously played in losing grand finals in 2022 and 2024, the midfielder highlighted the team's focus on maintaining standards on and off the field despite recent difficulties and lost public respect.

The Swans' win over Brisbane capped a week of final scores that included Hawthorn defeating Fremantle 72-40, Geelong topping Carlton 107-74, and Adelaide defeating the Western Bulldogs 90-68. In the subsequent semi-finals, Fremantle eliminated Geelong with a 120-106 victory, while Brisbane defeated Adelaide 144-91. Sydney will now host Fremantle on Friday night, with Hawthorn scheduled to play Brisbane on Saturday to determine the remaining spot in the grand final on September 26.