Strengths: Although only 188cm tall, Solomon has the ability to play tall in defence. He can do the job on tall and medium-sized opposition forwards. Another major strength of Solomon’s game is the way he attacks the ball and any opposition who happens to be in possession of the ball. He is aggressive towards his football and is always in and under packs. Solomon also has the ability to provide the team with run out of defence with his blistering pace.
Position: Solomon will again play predominantly across the half back line - whether he plays on a tall or a medium-sized forward will depend on match-ups. His role will be to let opposition forwards know he is about and to be a physical as possible. He may also be given the occasional run in the mid-field where he can be very effective in bursts.
2003: You can never underestimate how important Solomon is to the success of the Essendon side. He will play a crucial role in defence and his return will free up some of his teammates to move up the field. Solomon can play as a tall or medium-sized defender thanks to his ability in the air and at ground level. It is this versatility that makes him such a vital asset. Solomon has always taken on a new leadership role at the club and these skills will transfer onto the football field.
Kevin Sheedy says: I have no doubt that the medical and fitness staff was absolutely correct, not to rush Dean back too soon, as some clubs have done with players with similar injuries. He certainly is a welcome addition back in the team this year, there is no doubt we badly missed his aggressive play in the midfield and half back line last year. This season we will be looking for him to take a leadership role around the backline to assist team mates such as Sam Hunt, Andrew Welsh and Joel Reynolds. He is training very well at the moment.
