With Coach Luke Beveridge adamant that veteran defender Dale Morris won’t match-up on the monster forwards of the league this season, full-back Jordan Roughead says the Bulldogs have a number of options to support him in key defensive roles this season. 

At 200cm, Roughead has worn the brunt of opposition key forwards in recent years but says he is confident there’s depth amongst his teammates to reinforce this area in season 2015.

“We’ve got some younger guys that have just come on the scene at AFL level, Michael Talia, Fletcher Roberts, Joel Hamling’s come across from Geelong.

“I think these guys, once they’ve got a bit more experience and a few more games under their belt will be really quality defenders at AFL level.”

Roughead has been well supported by veterans Bob Murphy and Morris but the Club’s vice-captain said it was important younger players, across the whole playing group, continue to develop and take on more responsibility.

“Young guys like Tom Liberatore, Jack Macrae, Jake Stringer, these guys have really stepped up through the pre-season.

“I think we’re all at the point now where we’re just looking forward to getting out there.”

With the countdown to the NAB Challenge inside single digit days, Roughead says it’s not just the prospect of playing competitive football, but the chance to pull on the hoops that is enticing for all players.

"It’s one of the foundations of having a strong playing group is that guys are passionate about putting the jumper on and I think we’ve got a full list of guys that really bleed for the footy club now and it’s terrific.”