After enduring a difficult past couple of seasons, where his hopes of securing a permanent spot in the Lions forward line were dashed by injury, Michael Close is optimistic about the year ahead.

He made headlines early in 2015 when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne. Close returned from that injury to play two late games the following year in 2016 – kicking four goals in the Round 21 win over Carlton and giving Lions fans a taste of what could have been.

Close has an exceptional work ethic, and despite his 196cm frame is one of the best runners at the Club.

Speaking about his goals for season 2017, Close described a determination to lock down a spot in the Lions’ forward line.

“(I’d like to) cement my spot in the senior side and play as much senior footy as I can,” Close told LionsTV.

“There is always the option to go back if needed, but this year I see myself playing as a key forward.”

Photos: Pre-Season

The Lions returned to training last Thursday and Close said he expects things to ramp up as the season draws closer.

“We did a bit of match simulation early on – a bit of 10 v 10 and 15v15, a lot of handballs so we should be sharp with our hands this year.

“It was a nice hot day. The boys were a bit buggered towards the end of it, but they got through well and had a good session.”