An optimistic Michael Walters believes Fremantle can continue to compete as they rely on their younger players early in the 2020 season.

While Walters was quick to downplay Freo’s 2-0 record in the Marsh Community Series, the Fremantle leader believed it was a sign that his younger teammates had what it takes at the top level. 

Fremantle leaders David Mundy, Joel Hamling and Alex Pearce will all miss the opening rounds, as well as fellow experienced players Nathan Wilson, Stephen Hill and Jesse Hogan. 

“I’m going to back the young boys as much as I can, so there’s no concerns from our end,” Walters said.

“There’s no doubt we’d love for (the best team) to be out there but footy is a funny game, there’s always going to be injuries and spots available for guys to step into.

“The young talent we have. They’re coming in and playing their role each week.

“They’ve worked hard over the pre-season to get the structures right and to grow as players. That’s all we’ve really wanted from them leading into this year.

“I’m focused on helping out the young boys as much as I can and it’s on them to give themselves the best opportunity to play AFL footy.”

Walters backed former rookie draftee Taylin Duman to fill the void left by Stephen Hill at half back.

He added that Nathan Wilson would add quality to Fremantle’s backline when he returns and was excited by the prospects of new draftee Hayden Young.

“Taylin Duman has been playing some good footy, he’s a lock down defender who can also run as well,” Walters said.

“We’re going to have Nathan Wilson as well coming back soon, hopefully. 

“There’s a few players that can play in that role…Hayden Young has a good kick, he’s one player at training that can put in those dart kicks and make me look quite silly on the track. 

“It would be good to have him come back and play, especially for that run off half-back and also for that kick.”

Walters admitted to being nervous playing his first game under Justin Longmuir as Freo won a thrilling pre-season contest against West Coast on Saturday.

He said the team would improve over time under their new senior coach. 

“It’s just been Marsh Series and I missed the first game, but in saying that, I was quite pleased with how we went on the weekend in terms of structure and roles as well,” Walters said.

“I was going into the game a little bit nervous. I wasn’t sure what to expect but once I got in there, I really enjoyed it.

“It was good to get the win but at the end of the day, it was just a matter of seeing how the structure went against a quality opposition taking that into round one.”