What are your expectations for 2017?

[LP]

If Thomas is such a wonderful mentor and on field leader, why hasn't he been included in the leadership group?

Clearly, the playing group and coaching panel must have missed Thomas providing the on field direction and leadership that is so evident to some observers 

Firstly you have to nominate yourself or accept a nomination for the leadership group, you are not just appointed.

If I recall correctly Thomas was asked this very question during the 2015 pre-season, about joining the leadership group, after he was allegedly nominated by the coaching staff, but he declined the offer saying he preferred to concentrate on recovering form and regaining some respect. Unfortunately we now know injury wrecked that season.

As for Carlton's leadership group, that's a very interesting topic to raise, with past greats like Lachie Henderson being a member of it in his traitorous final season!