He might have just finished his first uninterrupted pre-season since his AFL debut in 2010 but defender Simon White is confident of breaking into Carlton's regular back six this year.
The 24-year-old played just five games last year as he struggled with a series of injuries which have held him to a total of 17 appearances for the Blues in three seasons.
But White believes he is free of his issues and mentally has put them behind him.
"I had a few knee troubles last year but I've done a full pre-season which has been really good and I'm just looking forward to getting a few games and a bit of consistency into my body," White said on Friday.
"It's very tough when you've had a lot of injuries but we've got great people at the club."
White said the fact new coach Mick Malthouse was a defender in his playing days could help him establish himself as a regular backman.
"He's had a bit of a chat and I'll play mostly down back but with the ability to relieve up forward as well.
"At the moment, we've got all our backs up and running so there's a lot of competition for spots but hopefully I can cement one."
White said he will go into this season with confidence after managing to play some games last year which convinced him he fitted into the side.
Much has been made of Malthouse's new game plan for the Blues but White said it was only a little different to the style under former coach Brett Ratten.
"It's probably not a huge change. I don't think it's been too different in terms of the way the boys have taken it on board," he said.
"He's all about defence, obviously he was a defender in his day, and I think he's got a bit of a soft spot for defenders so he's all about shutting the team down.
"The more games we play, the easier it will become, obviously."
White said the Blues' pre-season clash with Fremantle would give the side a better idea on their form.
"The 20-20 games (in rounds of the pre-season) are pretty tough to get a feel for," he said.
"A lot of personnel in both teams came in and out so tomorrow will be more of a normal game."
