2003
Ramanauskas was only able to play 10 games last season due to a low-grade cancer in his neck. His speed and polished skills were greatly missed by the team, but the emphasis from the club, the coaches and the playing group was for him to make a full and speedy recovery and football became a secondary issue.
STRENGTHS
Ramanauskas’s skills and leg speed are damaging to the opposition. His delivery and usage of the ball means he rarely wastes a possession. He has the ability to carry the ball forward and create space from the opposition. He chases, tackles and puts enormous pressure on opposition ball carriers.
POSITION
Take your pick. Ramanauskas can play in a variety of positions and it doesn’t really matter where you put him he is always a solid contributor. He has played most of his football on the wing and in the mid-field. He has the speed and skill level to be damaging to opposition teams in the middle and can also float forward and kick a few goals. Depending on how quickly his match fitness improves, 2004 could see Ramanauskas take on a permanent mid-field role.
2004
Ramanauskas has now been cleared to play football again and he will be a key contributor in the midfield. It’s just great to see him back in the number nine guernsey!
His versatility means he can play anywhere on the field and still be damaging to the opposition. He is an exciting player and talent and potentially could be the Bombers next superstar. Essendon fans are yet to see the best of Adam Ramanauskas.
WHAT SHEEDY SAYS
Isn’t it wonderful to see him back and performing in the Wizard Cup matches. He will play in the midfield now and finish off the pre-season getting a lot of mid-field fitness. Just in the last five minutes when he was very tired and nearly out on his feet of the Wizard Cup semi final against St.Kilda, he just made some very smart moves and had his wits about him. He is probably playing the game from memory more than actual fitness. He will only get better with the more matches he plays.
