Second year midfielder Connor Blakely will play his second game of AFL football against Adelaide on Saturday, and Freo captain David Mundy is excited to see the youngster’s development on display.

Blakely impressed in Freo’s NAB Challenge series, and got off to a solid start for Peel Thunder in the WAFL before being sidelined with a broken toe.

The big-bodied midfielder returned in Peel’s 21-point win over Claremont last week, and gathered 29 disposals, and Mundy was confident in his ability to compete at the senior level.

“If he comes in I’m sure he’ll be able to prove himself,” Mundy said.

“He had a bit of a taste for it in the Port Adelaide game last year, and I’m sure he’s learned a lot from that.”

Systematic approach for Freo

Mundy said Blakely’s growth over the pre-season has been particularly impressive, and that he brings a hard edge with his style of play.

“His progress over the pre-season this year has been tremendous,” he said.

“He’s a ball winning inside mid who really hunts the ball well and attacks it.

“He’s as hard as a cats head, and doesn’t veer off the line.”