North Melbourne’s new midfield coach Michael Barlow has praised Jy Simpkin’s “powerful” response to his failed bid to leave the club with four years left on his contract.

Simpkin became an unexpected name in the AFL trade sweepstakes after exploring his options, having been disappointed with changes to his role in recent times.

The 27-year-old, who is now set to lose the captaincy, received the most interest from Collingwood but the Kangaroos never seriously entertained the offer.

Simpkin has not addressed the situation publicly but has already been in contact with his line coach.

Barlow touched on the topic early in his trade period review podcast with former GWS player Dylan Buckley and 7NEWS Melbourne’s Xander McGuire.

“Did you message Jy this morning? Did you add him back in t

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