CARLTON will accept nothing less than a home final in 2011 after first-week exits in each of its last two campaigns.

Narrow losses to the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba in 2009 and the Sydney Swans at ANZ Stadium this year have left a bitter taste in the players' mouths, says Michael Jamison.

The first-choice full-back believes there is plenty to suggest the Blues can go deeper into September now that they have a better handle on what's required.

"Getting a home final is definitely the goal," Jamison said.

"Getting into the finals over the past two years has been our goal, but a home final has to be our goal this year, if not top four.

"We need to give the supporters a final in Melbourne because it's something they haven't had in almost 10 years now.

"We get another year into guys like Lachie Henderson, Brock McLean and Robbie Warnock - guys who have just come to the club and are trying to get a bit of continuity into their games. If we can do that then it will go a long to helping us achieve that goal."

Jamison is entering his fifth season at Visy Park after making his debut as an elevated rookie in 2007.

In terms of his own personal goals, the 24-year-old is keen to offer greater support to his defensive teammates next season with his clean bill of health a huge boost.

He said it was a nice change from previous seasons that have ended in hip or shoulder operations.

"It's the first year I've been at the club that I've had no off-season surgeries so I've been able to keep a bit of size on and keep pretty fit," he said.

"I'm coming into the pre-season and I'm not in the rehab group for once. It's great to be out there kicking footies with the boys early.

"It's pretty exciting to be about two months ahead of where I've been any other year at the club. I'm really looking forward to attacking the season."

Jamison feels the Blues' defensive unit made good strides in 2010 with a focus on further developing the chemistry between those players crucial to the team's fortunes.