Since suffering a crushing defeat in the 2017 AFL Grand Final the Adelaide Crows have struggled significantly.

In 2018 they failed to even qualify for the finals finishing 12th on the ladder before a slight improvement the following season where they ended up in 11th.

However, things would get much worse in 2020, with the Crows finishing last place on the ladder.

Last season their woes lessened a little with a 15th place finish.

There has currently been no real sign of improvement since then as the Crows currently sit in 16th and are 20 points off of a spot in the top eight.

It seems the club is properly set to invest in a clean-out and rebuild, though as Nine News Adelaide’s Will Crouch is reporting that the Crows will not be extending the contract of long-time player Matthew Crouch.

“Senior coach Matthew Nicks met with Matt Crouch during last week and told the midfielder the news he’s no doubt been dreading, that he will not be receiving a new contract with the club, effectively ending his tenure at West Lakes,” Crouch said.

“Crouch was understandably furious at this decision, and it’s no surprise.

“He’s a former club champion, he’s been a member of the leadership group, and by all accounts, a great club man, respected by his teammates.

“Crouch is still contracted for next season which is where this gets a little bit complicated, because following this recent conversation with Matthew Nicks, he’s almost certain to be at a new club come 2023.”

Last year there was also speculation that Crouch was set to seek pastures new before he re-signed for the Crows on a two-year deal.

He is also currently dealing with a quad injury that could mean we never see him play for Adelaide again.

This Saturday night the Crows will host top eight side the Carlton Blues after being beaten easily by the Sydney Swans.

A strong finish to the season would be ideal If they can win back to back and show some consistent progression, it could at least see the Crows climb to a higher ladder position building some hope for 2023, possibly make the finals for the first time in six years.