The SUNS now have a nice mix of older and younger players, but if things go well, there should be less reliance on the senior guys in 2017.

Gary Ablett is on the way back from a second shoulder surgery, and has trained the house down during pre-season. While most fans would love to see the little champion return to his scintillating best, at 32 that's a tall order. What you can expect is a mix of time between midfield and forward, and Ablett to be the icing on the cake, rather than the entire cake as he has so often needed to be.

Matt Rosa was an excellent acquisition last year, and the specialist wingman will again play games, but should be pushed by the younger players to retain his spot.

Freo signing Michael Barlow has fitted in seamlessly (he's already a member of the leadership group) and adds depth to the midfield.

Jarrod Harbrow is a club favourite, and although only 28, has played almost 200 games and will again be a regular across half-back, while hard-nut Michael Rischitelli is expected to return from his ACL injury in May.