Adam Goodes has answered the questions over his short-term future through hard work and persistence, Sydney Swans coach John Longmire says.
The dual Brownlow medallist spent two weeks in the NEAFL earlier this season after opting to play reserves, rather than be the Swans' sub for a second straight week in round three.
Goodes was recalled to the Swans' line-up for the round five clash against the Western Bulldogs and has steadily played himself into form since.
Longmire said the veteran had his best game for 2015 in Saturday night's four-point win over Hawthorn, with a season-high 18 possessions, seven marks, five inside 50s and a goal.
"Goodesy's form on the weekend was really strong. We were so happy with the way he went, he performed at a good, strong level in a big game," Longmire said on Monday.
"He was able to make those necessary adjustments, and work to the level he needed to work to, to make sure he got back into really good form.
"He's a very proud man and he's very competitive, and we saw that on the weekend. His last couple of weeks has been good."
The Swans take on Carlton this week, with coach Mick Malthouse under immense pressure and scrutiny thanks to the Blues' woeful start to the season.
He'll get no sympathy from the Swans, and Longmire said his opposite number's troubles were the last thing on his mind ahead of Friday night's clash at the SCG.
"We all understand the jobs we're in, but it's not something you spend too much time thinking about," Longmire said.
"You're always worried about what's happening in your own club and your own players and making sure they're focused on the task at hand."
Swans' assistant Stuart Dew has been mentioned as a possible replacement should Malthouse either get sacked or quit, but Longmire was also dismissive of that speculation.
"As far as I know Mick is coaching Carlton, so there's no jobs available and we're focused on Carlton. That's all I worry about, I don't deal in 'if's."