AFL Rising Star nominee Harvey Gallagher says while his ability to impact games so early is somewhat surprising, he believes it’s a result of his pre-season work.

Gallagher endured an injury-interrupted 2022 after being drafted with pick 39, before breaking through for his senior debut in round one this year.

“Yes (it’s a surprise) but I like to think that I put in a lot of work too,” Gallagher told media on Thursday morning.

“I was injured a fair bit last year and got a few VFL games under my belt, and then Bevo sort of came to me and instilled confidence in me which obviously made me feel comfortable that I could go to the next level.

“He’s put trust in me over the summer and at the start of the season.”

Gallagher also credited vice-captain Tom Liberatore for taking him under his wing.

“As a whole midfield group, the senior players have been awesome – but especially Libba,” he said.

“He’s taken a real interest in me, and is always in the green floor here doing extras with me before training and looking at vision. He’s been awesome for me.

“A lot of (what I’ve learnt from him) is just aggression and contest stuff - obviously that’s one of his massive strengths.”

Gallagher was recognised as the round three Rising Star following a 16-disposal, seven-mark, four-tackle and two-goal effort against West Coast.