Bootsma hatches plan for AFL return

Former Carlton defender Josh Bootsma will attempt to revive his AFL career by playing a full league season with Peel Thunder in 2015 if he isn't drafted later this year.

The 21-year-old will nominate for the national draft, but has a back-up plan in the event he is overlooked, having signed a one-year agreement to play for perennial strugglers Peel.

It is hoped a full season training and playing alongside Fremantle players and under the guidance of the Dockers' development coaches will give Bootsma the best chance of another crack at the elite level.

The back man returned to WA in June after being sacked by Carlton for posting explicit photos on social media.

He transferred to Peel and played in the club's final four league matches for the year, averaging eight disposals in a modest return to State league ranks.

Bootsma had previously managed 14 games in his 2 1/2 seasons on the Blues' list after originally being selected with the 22nd pick in the 2011 national draft.

Carlton floated Bootsma as a potential trade option at the end of last season and it was believed there was preliminary interest from West Coast.

However, a deal never even- tuated and he remained with the Blues.

The Eagles are in the market for midfielders ahead of next month's trade period and the approaching national, pre- season and rookie drafts.

They have varied options in defence given the improvement of Brad Sheppard and Jamie Bennell this year, meaning they are unlikely to show any interest in the 192cm Bootsma.

The South Fremantle product has secured full-time work as an appliance retailer since returning to WA and has become a father, with his partner giving birth to a daughter, Indiana.

The ties to Peel next year will keep him close to father and former Docker Brad Bootsma, who works as the Thunder's football manager.