The integration of Callum Ah Chee and Grant Birchall into new surroundings has impressed Brisbane Lion Harris Andrews.
Ah Chee and Birchall are attempting to find their place in a settled Lions backline after off-season moves from Gold Coast and Hawthorn respectively.
Brisbane's consistency of selection last season was a key part of the club's rise from 15th in the 2018 campaign to second on the ladder in last year's home and away fixtures.
Andrews, along with established players such as Marcus Adams, Alex Witherden, Darcy Gardiner and Daniel Rich were mainstays at the back for coach Chris Fagan.
Both Ah Chee and four-time premiership winner Birchall are attempting to rebuild their careers after injury woes in recent times, and Andrews has lauded the way both have given their all to integrate with their new teammates.
"There's been some serious competition for spots and everyone's improving because that pressure for spots is there," Andrews said.
"We've really tried hard over the pre-season to integrate them into our system. Particularly as a back six, the way we work as a unit and the trademark that we live by as defenders.
"They've spent a lot of time learning that. Very intuitive guys, always willing to ask questions and that."
Andrews is also looking to acquire some new tricks of his own when he takes part in the AFL's State of Origin bushfire relief match on Friday.
The 23-year-old is part of the All Stars squad to face a Victorian selection at Marvel Stadium, a selection he views as a massive honour.
"To be viewed amongst the league to be able to play in that game, it's something that I'm really proud of and I'd imagine when my career eventually does finish something that I'll look back on very fondly," he said.
"Being in Brisbane we don't get a massive exposure to other teams and other players from other clubs so it's a really good oportunity for me to go down there, meet some other guys, see how they go about it and take as much away from it as I can."
Australian Associated Press
