Greater Western Sydney target Taylor Walker isn't on the outer despite again being shunned for AFL selection, says Crows coach Neil Craig.

Craig dropped the emerging key forward last week, and the 21-year-old responded with seven goals at SANFL level.

But Craig overlooked fan favourite Walker when naming an unchanged Adelaide side for their away clash with Collingwood on Sunday.

Walker, out of contract at season's end, has put off negotiations with the Crows.

GWS coach Kevin Sheedy has identified Walker as a recruiting target for the fledgling club for its debut AFL season next year.

But Craig said Walker had to be stronger than considering a future elsewhere because of being axed.

"I'd like to think that Taylor understands just because you get omitted from the side in this industry, it doesn't mean the club doesn't want you or your future is somewhere else," Craig said on Thursday.

"God, you have got to be stronger than that and I'm sure these players will be."

Craig said Walker, considered the most natural forward at Adelaide since Tony Modra in the 1990s, would have to handle speculation about his future.

"That is something that he has to be able to manage and handle," Craig said.

"And I guess in the end, if it comes to fruition that there is an offer for him, then he has got to make a decision."

But Craig, who had demanded greater defensive skills from Walker, said the Crows would put up a fight for the Broken Hill-born attacker.

"No doubt in my mind, Taylor has got a future here," he said.

"But I have a responsibility to make sure that they have a skill set that enables them to perform for our team."

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