YOUNG Carlton defender Angus Schumacher is putting together an impressive form line for the Northern Blues.

After missing just one game in his VFL debut year of 2018, Schumacher has emerged as a big improver in Northern’s 4-1 start to the season.

And on the back of “his best performance of the year”, development coach Shane Watson was quick to praise the emerging half-back.

Speaking on Carlton Coaches’ Corner, Watson said the weekend displayed Schumacher’s ability and progression after an interrupted month.

“He’s missed the last few weeks, with the VFL having the bye and being the carryover [emergency] before that,” Watson said.

“His form previously was really good and he had a really encouraging game on the weekend.”

Schumacher collected 16 disposals and five marks in the 25-point win over Frankston and was named in the side’s best players post-match by the coaches.

Along with his ball-use by foot (88 percent efficiency), Watson said Schumacher’s prowess to intercept in the air and launch from defence was an area where he’s constantly growing.

“He’s done a lot of work on his craft at training,” he said.

“He takes three of four intercept marks for the game and he looks really strong when he’s doing so. If he is to get an AFL game in the next few weeks, this is something to look forward to.”

Yet to make his AFL debut, the 20-year-old - who has featured in spurts through the midfield - would have taken the notice of VFL supporters with his long left foot.

As someone who can use his disposal to his advantage from the defensive half, the coaches will continue to back Schumacher in.

“[We give him] a lot of encouragement — he’s a really penetrating kick,” Watson said.

“At times, he’s going to have use the easy option: the short option. Where he can, we like him to run and carry and gain 80 metres for us.”