SIMON Goodwin says the fact that he hasn’t been involved with the Adelaide Crows for six years means it’s no longer a strange feeling coming up against his former side.

Speaking in the lead-up to Sunday’s clash against the Crows at the MCG, Goodwin, a great of Adelaide, said he had great memories with the club, having played in two premierships and winning three club champions.

But given the last of his 275 AFL games was in 2010 – he then spent four seasons with Essendon as an assistant coach – Goodwin said he was now fully ensconced in the red and blue.

“It’s been a while now – six years [since I played at Adelaide],” he told Melbourne TV.  

“I had some terrific times and memories back in Adelaide over a 14-year playing career, but now [I’m] coaching against them and watching them – they’re a strong footy club and they’re a strong footy team.

“We know we’re going to have to be at our best to really compete and try and get on the front foot against a really quality opposition.”

Goodwin said it would be a moving experience for his former side, as it marks the first anniversary of the tragic loss of former coach Phil Walsh. 

“It was really tragic for the footy club and it’s a time of reflection for what Phil was able to bring the footy club,” he said.

“It will be an emotional day for them and hopefully it’s a good game of footy as well.”