Bulldogs youngster Nathan Hrovat will inherit the number 13 left vacant by club great Daniel Giansiracusa.

Hrovat, who started his career in the number 24, enjoyed a breakout year in 2014 in which he established his spot in the senior side in the second half of the year – playing 12 of the final 13 games.

Speaking with The Age on Monday, Hrovat said it was an honour to take on the new number.

“Obviously I’ve looked up to Gia over the last couple of years, he’s really helped me coming into the club and playing as a forward, so to be able to take his number is a real honour and with him still working at the club it’s real fun, and there’s a lot of banter.”

Giansiracusa, now back at the club in an assistant coaching role, had only praise for Hrovat.

“He’s got such great attributes. I hope he stays in the forward line. But he’s definitely got attributes to play multiple positions. He’s a pretty special talent and one we’re really excited about.”

After suffering a broken cheekbone and calf strain at the start of 2014, Hrovat made his way back into the senior side in round 11, and only missed one game for the remainder of the season.

Hrovat earned a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in round 17 this year, for his 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, five marks, four tackles and one goal performance in the Bulldogs’ victory over Gold Coast.

Although spending the majority of his season alongside Giansiracusa in the forward line, Hrovat showed he is more than capable of taking on a more permanent midfield role in 2015, and will be looking for a consistent pre-season after being struck down by injury in previous summers.