Why brutal snub highlights Swans' flag chances

Matthew Lloyd is convinced Sydney is the most "complete" side in the competition, after a 48-point annihilation of Fremantle in round nine.

The Swans sit a game clear on top of the ladder, already collecting notable wins over Sydney rivals GWS, finals-bound Melbourne and Collingwood, as well as the Suns.

But it's one simple change that the Swans have - or haven't - made, that could be the reason they hold an 8-1 record.

Veteran Luke Parker is struggling to crack their side after an early-season injury, but has continued to dominate at VFL level.

Parker broke his arm in a pre season match, with the 31-year-old still unable to earn an AFL recall after nine rounds of football.

The veteran even kicked the winning goal in the form of a 60-metre torpedo, to help Sydney defeat North Melbourne by six points in their round seven VFL clash.

"Luke Parker (is) playing seconds (VFL), week after week," Lloyd said on Nine's Sunday Footy Show.

But not relying on Parker is a good thing, Lloyd said.

"They're in a wonderful spot."

Lloyd is convinced the Swans are the real deal, declaring their side is already perfect, needing no tweaking as the season goes on.

"Absolutely clinical, what they do to sides. Thirteen goals to four (against Fremantle)," Lloyd said.

"What do they (Sydney) lack? I don't think they lack anything.

"Their defence, they just don't let you score.

https://twitter.com/sydneyswans/status/1789052795988889836

"The ball movement is outstanding."

The Swans prowess also makes Lloyd wonder how they dropped their one and only game of the season so far to Richmond, who sit 17th on the ladder.

"I know we can jump from week to week, but I think they're the most complete side in the competition," he said.

As for Parker, Swans coach John Longmire admitted after their round nine win that although the star is fit, there's still a way to go before they can add him to their star-studded line-up.

"He's been such a big presence for a long time. His attitude's been fantastic. It's not easy to do, he's a pro," Longmire said after the Swans' round nine win on Friday night.

"But at the same time, he wants to play senior footy, and I think everyone would understand that.

"We're confident that Luke's good enough to be able to come in, and he's fit enough now.

"He missed such a significant chunk of the season. He should be fit and ready to go, and at some stage he will come into the team and play."

The Swans now look ahead to their blockbuster clash against Carlton at the MCG on Friday night.