BATTLE FOR ROUND 1

A host of Melbourne clubs are already after him and the key forward will wait until the later stages of the season to make a decision on his future. While Wright, 21, believed Lynch’s presence was critical to the club, his apprenticeship under the 25year-old had given him the tools to one day spearhead the club’s forward line if needed. “It is easy to tell he always takes the best defender and it takes a lot of time and effort from opposition teams to stop,” Wright said. “It takes a bit of pressure off me but the way he handles that and his physical presence and ability to compete is something I have really learnt from and tried to emulate.

“He is really important to the team and as a captain plays a pivotal role up there as a leader.”

Wright missed the JLT Community Series with a calf injury and conceded it was still touch-and-go as to whether he is fit enough to be available for Round 1.

The 203cm tall - who kicked

31 goals last season - will need to battle the returning Sam Day for a spot in the 22.

Wright said it was up to him to improve his consistency and produce the footy to ensure his place in the senior side couldn’t be refuted.

“It comes down to form,” Wright said.

“I was happy to play all 22 games last year and for my body to hold up but I was up and down with form.

“I feel I really grew as a player. I played good footy at times and footy that wasn’t good enough. It’s about lifting up the base level and still have those good games.”