Western Bulldogs defender Caleb Daniel just can’t wait to get back onto Marvel Stadium to do what he does best.

The 23-year-old has become one of the most damaging small defenders in the competition, with his precise skill and sharp decision-making setting up many of the Bulldogs’ free-flowing attacking moves. 

Daniel averaged 20 disposals in defence in 2019, before injury saw his campaign come to a premature end. 

He missed the Dogs’ last four games, including the elimination final loss to GWS.

After a strong summer, he lined up in the opening round against Collingwood, collecting 20 possessions. 

“It’s been a long time since Round 1,” Daniel told Bulldogs Media. 

“I’m really looking forward to getting back.  The back end of last year was a little bit disappointing with the hamstring injury. 

“I had a big pre-season and I’m raring to go.  Come Sunday, hopefully I’m out on the pitch.” 

Daniel said the squad has been able to capitalise on a productive return to training block over the last few weeks, with a relatively healthy squad battling for spots in high-quality match practice sessions. 

“There’s no fitness like match fitness.  To be able to get out there and do a fair bit of match sim, and work on your craft and match-like running is massive,” he said. 

“I’m really glad that we’ve been able to do that, and have some competitive hitouts through that period.”