Docker Ballantyne in fight for AFL spot

Fremantle AFL forward Michael Walters says he still views Hayden Ballantyne as a vital part of the team's attack.

Hayden Ballantyne

Fremantle's Hayden Ballantyne will have to fight this season for his AFL spot. (AAP)

He's not afraid to wrestle some of the AFL's biggest defenders but Fremantle antagonist Hayden Ballantyne faces an even bigger battle this year - holding onto his spot.

The Dockers will unleash a new-look forward line this season after the recruitment of star duo Jesse Hogan and Rory Lobb.

Hogan, Lobb and Matt Taberner are expected to form a three-spearhead attack, and the race is on to fill the spots at their feet.

Michael Walters is a lock for one of the small forward's roles, but Ballantyne, Brandon Matera, Travis Colyer, Sam Switkowski and mature-age recruit Lachie Schultz will fight it out for the others.

Ballantyne booted 21 goals last season from 17 games, with his pressure on opponents still elite.

His four-goal haul in the final-round loss to Collingwood highlighted his value to the team.

But Ballantyne's lack of consistency has been a hot topic of debate in recent years, and whether the 31-year-old will be able to hold onto his spot this season remains to be seen.

Walters still views Ballantyne as an integral part of the attack.

"He got drafted with me so we've been here 11 years and there's no doubt that everyone knows what they're going to get from him," Walters said.

"He didn't play (in the recent intra-club) because he was a little bit sore from something.

"But over the pre-season, he hasn't missed a beat.

"I think he's only missed probably four or five sessions through the pre-season, so Ballas is ready to go and there's nothing really major going on with him."

Fremantle take on Collingwood on Monday in a pre-season clash in Joondalup.

Skipper Nat Fyfe, after minor elbow surgery earlier this week, is in doubt for the match.

Walters will be named against the Magpies, and is keen to continue splitting his time between the midfield and forward line.

And he dismissed any concerns over his left knee that he injured last year.

"The knee's fine. It was more precautionary with the tape," Walters said.

"I think I'm going to carry that out for the rest of the year."


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Source: AAP


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