“IT IS what it is.”

There’s been plenty of commentary about Carlton’s defensive situation, but Nic Newman insists the backline group isn’t feeding into it.

Newman has been a consistent performer for the Blues this season, particularly in recent weeks, and he has full confidence that he and his teammates will continue to step up when called upon.

Despite last week’s injury to new recruit Sam Durdin and the unavailability of Jacob Weitering, Newman was coy in his response to what has changed for the defensive group overseen by Aaron Hamill.

“There’s no point dwelling on it or speaking about it,” Newman said.

“‘Weiters’ isn’t there and that’s the way it is. We lose ‘Durds’ [Sam Durdin] this week, but we’ve got guys in the VFL who will step up.

“We’re rolling with it.”

Breaks between games have differed for the Blues this season, and this time around is no different: a six-day break last week turns into a nine-day version this week.

For Newman and the playing group, it’s a chance to hit the track with two main training sessions and iron out deficiencies which the coaching staff identified in the game against Richmond.

“It’s a good opportunity after a disappointing loss,” Newman said.

“We’ve got some time to hone our craft, we’ve got some things to work on: we can get two quality sessions out.”

Having played every game so far this season, Newman enters the weekend preparing for his 50th Carlton game — a “small but still nice” milestone for the former Swan.

On the back of two injury-hit campaigns due to a ruptured patella in the first match back after the Covid-enforced layoff of 2020, Newman is back producing consistent football in the Navy Blue — and he’s savouring every moment.

“I’m definitely not taking for granted the chance to play every week and being injury-free,” he said.

“I feel like I’m getting some consistency in my game, which has been pleasing from a personal point of view.

“I haven’t thought too much about [the 50 games] to be honest. It’s nice, it’s gone pretty quick.

“This is my fourth year and I love being here. I’m really grateful for the opportunity the Club gave me.”

Newman’s 50th Navy Blue game comes on Saturday against Fremantle, in the family-friendly time slot of 1:45pm.

With this weekend marking one of four AFL ‘kids come free’ rounds, Newman said he was hopeful of seeing as many people at Marvel Stadium as possible.

“We really need their support: they’ve been awesome all year, the Carlton fans,” he said.

“A 1:45pm game is a bit more kid friendly, so we’re looking forward to seeing a few more young ones there.”