Carlton assistant coach John Barker is full of praise for the Blues' brand new faces. 

The first to fourth year players tick off their second week of preseason training today and Barker says the new recruits have so far impressed with their efforts – Kristian Jaksch and Mark Whiley among them. 

Speaking to Croc Media, Barker said the former Greater Western Sydney players have adjusted well to life at Visy Park. 

"Kristian has slotted in nicely – he’s training very well and and we're hopeful he'll have some good impact for us next year,” Barker said. 

"KJ's very versatile in the fact that he can play forward and play back.

"Mark's (also) a very good player – his intensity and intent to get the job done stood out to our recruiters. 

"He's got great character and great intent, and he's training reasonably fiercely at the moment, so we're a looking forward to him having some impact for us next year also."

Meanwhile Carlton's latest addition, Matthew Dick, has also enjoyed hitting the track amongst his new teammates. 

The Blues were quick to secure the 20-year-old after he was delisted by his former club, Sydney. 

"He training with real vigour and intent, which is always really good to see,” Barker said. 

Carlton youngster Kristian Jaksch. (Photo: Carlton Football Club)

Ahead of the senior boys kicking off their pre-season campaign on Monday, one player's return in particular is causing much excitement – that of course being Matthew Kreuzer. 

The ruckman endured a horror 2014 season after requiring further surgery on a troublesome foot injury. 

Barker says the 25-year-old has been training hard and is well prepared for 2015. 

"We had a bike ride not too long ago and he absolutely smashed everyone,” Barker said. 

"Hopefully he can get his body right and be that same, competitive beast, with that agility and big tank that is going to help us around the ground."