Geordie Payne: Why footy fans are saying the AFL’s No.1 draft pick ‘looks like he just got chosen to fight in the Vietnam War’ after his very telling reaction on video

Geordie Payne has been given the opportunity to launch his AFL career with North Melbourne, but the youngster’s reaction after being called up on Wednesday night has sparked a strong response from football fans.

Payne, 18, was the first choice but the midfielder – who has worked as an apprentice builder in Tasmania – didn’t seem too happy that Arden St was his next destination.

While Payne’s family were clearly delighted, the midfielder sat on the bench and covered his face as his name was called. He showed no sign of excitement or happiness.

His response quickly got football fans talking on social media.

“It looked like his number had just been called because of the military service in Vietnam,” one supporter joked.

But the youngster’s reaction (center, in light blue top) after being recruited by the struggling Kangaroos as part of the 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draft was telling.

Footy fan Noah declared ‘guy was bullied’ after posting video of Geordie Payne’s strange reaction

This footy supporter posted a GIF showing how he thinks Payne reacted to his chance to make it in professional footy

A second posted: ‘Doesn’t look happy at all.’

And a third said: ‘Why would he be happy to join the team with the worst standards in the league.’

Payne later clarified his subdued response in an interview with AFL.com.au.

“I’m super excited… it’s been a lifelong dream of mine, and to have it come true on the spot, I didn’t really know what to think,” he said.

“I was a little overwhelmed, some tears were shed… I was lost.”

Payne also confirmed he will be rid of the tools with immediate effect – and hopes it is a permanent move.

Payne joins the Roos (pictured after their loss to Port last weekend) as the club looks set to raise its third wooden spoon in four years

The Kangaroos – who have not won a senior match of AFL footy this season – used their prized No. 1 pick to sign Payne, who has impressed since moving from defense to midfield in the Talent League for the Tasmania this season Devils.

They also recruited former Port Adelaide ruckman Brynn Teakle in the rookie draft.

The rookies come on board at a time when the Roos are on track to record their third wooden spoon in the past four seasons.

Elsewhere, fellow strugglers Richmond selected 22-year-old defender Jacob Blight from Peel Thunder with pick No. 2, while West Coast secured the services of Jack Hutchinson from Collingwood’s VFL side with pick No. 3.

St Kilda went with midfielder Max Hall from the Box Hill Hawks with pick No. 4, and Hawthorn rounded out the top five with tall forward Jasper Scaife from West Perth.