Fremantle forward Michael Walters has kicked six goals in the opening two rounds. Picture: Michael Klein Source: PerthNow
THIS time last year, the career of Fremantle forward Michael Walters was at the crossroads. Now he is a "vital cog" in Ross Lyon's team.
Walters was banished to his WAFL club Swan Districts during the 2012 pre-season for failing to meet fitness standards set out by new coach Lyon.
Several players, including skipper Matthew Pavlich, wondered at the time if that would be the last time they saw Walters in Dockers colours.
But Walters knuckled down and returned to Fremantle's starting side late last year to play a key role in the club's finals campaign.
The 22-year-old has starred in the opening two rounds this season, kicking three goals in both of the club's wins over West Coast and the Western Bulldogs.
Lyon said Walters had won back the respect of his teammates through his persistence and strong work ethic.
"He's worked incredibly hard, and I think that's why we all love the game," Lyon told 6PR.
"Michael, in the right environment, you see the true person he is and the character, his work ethic and his desire and passion to play good footy.
"He plays a critical role and he's a vital cog in the Docker team at the minute."
Lyon said the decision to send Walters, a fourth-round draft pick in 2008, to train with Swan Districts early last year had not been made lightly.
"We decided to commit to some standards, and they're standards they players wanted, not that I imposed," Lyon said.
"We never wrong the person, but we always give feedback on the actions, whether they are desired or not.
"It's been a fantastic story so far for Michael, but there's plenty of come."
The unbeaten Dockers (2-0) host a rampaging Essendon side at Patersons Stadium on Friday night, with Lyon hopeful ruckman Zac Clarke (calf) with be available to team with the in-form Jon Griffin.
Fiery forward Hayden Ballantyne is expected to return from a one-game suspension, most likely at the expense of either Hayden Crozier or Cameron Sutcliffe.
Lyon is considering tagging Brownlow medallist Jobe Watson ahead of Essendon's other prolific ball winners Brendon Goddard and Brent Stanton.
"We traditionally haven't gone to Jobe, but he's a much improved player and leader," Lyon said.
"We've got some big-bodied players we feel can match Jobe, so we'll have our hands full.
"But it's not about one player. I think if you concentrate too much on one person, you can lose sight of the bigger picture."
Lyon also said Pavlich was likely to play without the glove he sported during the win over the Bulldogs last Saturday.
Pavlich, who kicked 2.6, split the webbing in his left hand in Fremantle's opening round win over West Coast.
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