HIGH-FLYING Melbourne forward Russell Robertson believes he can play AFL for at least another two seasons.
Although Robertson announced on Thursday that he would play his last match for Melbourne against St Kilda in round 22, bringing his games tally to 228 (11th most in the club's history), he wants to line up with a rival club in 2010-11.
Robertson explained that his ability to fight back from a serious achilles injury and play 11 games and kick 23 goals this year gives him confidence to play on in 2010.
"As a footballer, I don't think it's over," he said, adding he had no anguish or qualms towards Melbourne.
"I still think there is some good run left in my legs … I've fought my way back and I didn't do a pre-season and [I've] had reasonable form this year and played pretty well and still been able to kick a few goals.
"I'm still able to jump, which is good and I still think that I've got some value and if there is a football club out there that requires the services of someone like me, then I'll definitely put my hand up.
"If that doesn't eventuate, then I'll be very proud and very happy with what I've produced."
Robertson shook off suggestions he was too old, saying he had plenty to offer a new club and that his record spoke for itself.
"If they want a forward who competes hard and can kick goals, I probably average about two goals a game and I'm still doing that. If they need someone who's going to kick 40 goals a year, then I'll be that man," Robertson said.
"I've never had any mishaps and I've never been in any fights in pubs and the main reason for that is I'd probably get beaten up. I don't want to sound like an idiot or a showoff, but I've been a model citizen."
Robertson, who has known his fate with Melbourne for a while, has already picked the brain of Tiger Ben Cousins, in relation to shifting clubs.
Cousins played 238 games with West Coast before being picked up last year's NAB AFL Pre-Season Draft.
"He seems like a new man. There is a real bounce in his step and he's really keen to help Richmond out," Robertson said.
After 13 year with Melbourne, Robertson admitted it was sad to be parting with the team he loves.
He also thanked the club for the opportunities it had given him.
"The football club has been a massive part of my life," he said.
"I hope what I did at my time at Melbourne I have repaid them in some small way. I don't think it'll ever repay what they have given me, but unfortunately all good things come to an end."
A proud Tasmanian, Robertson was told by Melbourne that he is still in the team's best 22, but long-term he won't be around when the club pushes for regular finals and ultimately a premiership.
He said it was hard to hear that he had to move on when he was still good enough to play, but there were no harsh words with the club.
"It's always been a dream of mine to play in the AFL and I did it and now my dream's coming to an end – that's the reality," Robertson said.
"This football club – the Melbourne Demons – have shaped and moulded me into the man that I am today. And I think they did a pretty good job, because I had all of the right teachings."
