THEY arrived in the same off-season, they live in the same house and they admittedly spend way too much time together.

It’s clear that Carlton’s midfield - and future - is in good hands with Sam Walsh and Will Setterfield.

Both players went to another level in 2020, with Walsh playing every game and Setterfield missing only the final match of the year through a minor calf injury.

The reigning NAB AFL Rising Star, Walsh received plaudits from the football world as someone who was arguably in All Australian form in the second half of the year.

In the case of Setterfield, he was arguably Carlton’s most improved player, embracing more time as an inside midfielder: his natural position.

Walsh was more than willing to join in the praise for his teammate and good mate.

“I’ve spent a fair bit of time around him over the past two years and I’ve seen him develop. He’s always had the attributes to be a great footballer and he’s starting to show that now,” Walsh told Carlton Media.

“His ability to tackle but also some of his vision and decision-making around the contest really stood out this year. That’s what has grown in his game.

“I love playing alongside him.”

While Setterfield broke through for 18 games in his first season at Carlton as he overcome injury, it was in 2020 where he took the next step and proved exactly why the Blues were so keen for his services.

He also saw first-hand Walsh romp to every award possible to him as the best young player in the competition.

Setterfield believed it was no surprise why Walsh is as good as he is — and he’s only going to get better from here.

“It just comes down to his work rate and his habits off the field. He’s a true professional and he’s already a leader of the Club in his second year,” Setterfield said.

“It’s no secret as to why he’s a good player: he just gets it done week after week.

“He had an unbelievable year, he’s gone from strength to strength. His last 10 weeks were just about All Australian form.”