Youngster Liam Dawson had a fairy-tale debut season at the Lions, playing 10 games and combining with fellow Hyundai Help for Kids Academy product Harris Andrews to form an integral part of the Lions’ back six.

The 19-year-old returned to training last Monday but has had an interrupted start to his second pre-season.

“I haven’t been out on the park unfortunately. I’ve had a bit of soreness in my knee,” Dawson told LionsTV.

“Hopefully I’ll get out there soon with the boys and have a bit of a kick and a bit of a run around.”

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With Dawson’s running limited as he recovers from the injury, the Queenslander has used the opportunity to add some bulk to his frame.

“I’ve been back in the gym trying to build a bit of size in the top half because I haven’t been able to do any lower body – I’m just trying to build my upper body and do a bit of strength stuff.”

Ahead of the National Draft next Tuesday, Dawson spoke of the Lions’ current Academy talent.

“Keasey (Ben Keays) and Eric (Hipwood) are good fellas – they’ve always been around the Club a fair bit with the Academy.

“Wags (Corey Wagner) and Rueben (William) are going pretty well too.

“Hopefully they come to us and we get a few more Academy boys at the Lions.”