David Swallow won't shirk the hard work

Injuries have robbed Gold Coast star David Swallow of two years of his AFL career but he says he won't ever change the hard edge he plays the game with.

Gold Coast midfielder David Swallow has endured a tough two years.

Multiple knee problems and a hamstring injury kept him out of AFL action until round two of this year but the combative Suns midfielder can't help but keep putting his body on the line.

Swallow hasn't shirked any contact in three impressive performances since his return even though he admits there were times during his rehab where the former No.1 draft pick thought he might have to change his combative style of play.

"It can be hard to (look after yourself) when the play is unfolding and your instincts take over," Swallow said.

"But once you step back out on the field it's hard to change the way you've gone about it for 20-odd years."

In his comeback against GWS, Swallow was a shining light in the 91-point drubbing that put the focus on coach Rodney Eade and foundation captain Gary Ablett's futures.

Since the 24-year-old's return, Eade has regularly praised Swallow's intensity and leadership which has provided a spark to the group both in training and during games.

"I've been here since day dot - now I've taken on that role and responsibility," Swallow said of being a leader.

The Suns have now won two in a row and have put a focus on getting multiple bodies at the stoppage.

As a result they have dominated the clearances in recent weeks with 39 against Carlton in round four and 51 against Hawthorn in round three. It's a trend they will need to continue with if they are to be a hope of upsetting unbeaten Adelaide at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.