On Wednesday, Krakouer’s manager Carlos De Costa told Melbourne’s Age newspaper that the 22-year-old had played his last game for the Power.
The report also said De Costa had informed Port Adelaide officials of Krakouer’s decision on Monday, but football manager Peter Rohde denied any such conversation took place and was still waiting for written confirmation from the West Australian’s management late on Wednesday afternoon.
Chaplin said he felt sorry for the “shy” Krakouer given the way the events had unfolded.
“Krak spoke to Rohdey, but obviously there’s been a little bit of miscommunication between him and his manager. The way his manager dealt with it was a little bit disappointing and the club probably deserved a little bit better,” Chaplin said on Thursday.
“It’s been reported since probably round two or three, so it’s been on the cards for a while. The decision’s been made now, so it’s probably taken a bit of pressure off of him [Krakouer] and we can move forward as a club and as a playing group.
“We don’t have that worry about what Krak’s going to do.”
Chaplin said he had spoken to Krakouer about his intentions throughout the season, but still had no idea whether the attacking half-back would join Gold Coast or seek a trade back to WA.
“A few of us spoke to him about it, but he never spoke about what his decision was going to be. His decision has probably been made for a couple of months now, but he kept his cards pretty close to his chest. You can try and talk him around, but in the end it’s his decision … and unfortunately we lose a pretty good player,” Chaplin said.
“Hopefully, we get something in return, whether that’s a pick or a player.”
Port Adelaide faces the prospect of losing Krakouer for nothing if he decides against joining the Suns and nominates for the NAB AFL Pre-Season Draft, where West Coast is likely to have one of the first picks.
Chaplin said the Power would be best served trying to seek a trade for the skilful defender and that the club was in the market for an experienced ruckman.
“Broges has been fantastic this year, but he is coming towards the end of his career and it’s going to be a pretty big void to fill,” Chaplin said.
“Matthew Lobbe has had an injury-interrupted season and that’s hurt him a little bit because he probably would’ve played more, but I think another ruckman would be handy.
“Another gun midfielder would be great too, someone that could release Danyle Pearce and David Rodan of a tag.”
