Danger loves Tex factor

Taylor Walker leaves the ground after Adelaide's win over Collingwood at Adelaide Oval. Picture: Simon Cross Source: News Corp Australia

PATRICK Dangerfield admits he broke into a huge grin when he heard Taylor Walker's name called out over the PA system during warm ups at Adelaide Oval on Thursday night.

Dangerfield understands the importance of the key forward to the Crows' hopes of playing finals again this season and was thrilled to see him return after 12 months out with a knee injury.

"When they announced all the player's names before the game, I couldn't help but smile when they said his name. It's just awesome to have him back," Dangerfield said.

Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson fronts the media following the Crows' 21-point win over Collingwood on Thursday night.

Josh Jenkins, who thrived in Walker's return to the forward line kicking four goals, also welcomed the elite goalkicker back with open arms.

"It was great to have him back," Jenkins said.

"While he was a bit fumbly and he fatigued pretty quickly in the second half it was awesome to have him out there and you'd expect he's only going to improve from here."

And Walker enjoyed being back just as much.

"Amazing to be back out there with the boys. Some really (positive) signs and a big thanks to the Crows you were unreal," he tweeted.