Spots in the midfield are scarce, but Luke Russell is putting plenty of pressure on himself to demand more opportunities inside the centre square this season. 

In 2013, the 21-year-old could be found anywhere on the ground, fulfilling roles as a forward, defender or wing-man.

But Russell has his sights set on becoming a regular feature in Guy McKenna’s midfield this season, with the 43-game swingman eager to create more run and carry on the wing. 

“I’d love to spend more time on the wing – that is really where I’d like to see myself in the future,” he said.

“Being the swingman, playing the roles for the team has been my job, and I’ve been able to play a few big games and be consistent.

“Hopefully down the track I’ll get that spot.”

It hasn’t come easy for Russell this summer though. 

The Tasmanian has been placed on a restricted training for much of the pre-season, after undergoing dual hip surgery to reattach a labral from his hip bone.

Russell has revealed for the first time the full extent of the injury, and how it had significantly hampered his performance at the back end of last season. 

 “I managed to play through it but it did affect me a bit,” he said.

“I was getting sorer, but I was able to get the surgery done quickly and it got significantly better, because if I had left it any longer I would have had troubles this season.”

Restricted to light training, Russell is now taking part in skills and development, with hopes of joining the main training group before the NAB Challenge series.

Regardless, the versatile utility is looking forward to what lays ahead in his fourth season on the Gold Coast. 

“Hopefully I can get out there and be consistent with my game no matter where I am playing.

“I’m just going to work my hardest and play the team role, and hopefully by doing that I can have an impact in the team.”