CO-CAPTAIN Nathan Jones says it was a “learning curve” dealing with a calf injury he suffered pre-Christmas.  

Jones said the pre-season set-back taught him plenty.

“Particularly prior to Christmas, in terms of how I was approaching things. I didn’t change my way, but I listened to my body a bit more and it was quality over quantity,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“I’ve had some good discussions with Goody (Simon Goodwin), who has been really supportive throughout that period. I’ve done a little bit of research and got some inspiration from some other athletes, so I’m on the right path now.

“It hasn’t been too significant really – it was only quite minor and I’ve learned from that. I’m looking forward to training with the boys again, as I’m sick of running laps.”

The triple Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Memorial Trophy winner said he was “really excited” about 2018, after a tough end to the 2017 season, when Melbourne missed the final eight by 0.5 per cent.

“It’s funny, particularly the wash-up after last season, there was all this speculation about how it was going to affect us, but if anything, it’s really spurring us on. We addressed it early in the pre-season and I haven’t heard a thing since,” Jones said.

“As far as I’m concerned, you can only go on how we’re training, and at this time of the year, everyone is optimistic. I think our group has really taken another step forward.

“I’ve seen some real growth in our younger players – the ones who need to keep taking those steps forward for the team we’re after. They’ve invested a lot into their preparation. The team’s in terrific shape and I’m really excited.”

The 239-gamer turned 30 years old last Saturday and said his milestone was low-key, given his focus on the season ahead.

“I ticked over the better side of 30, but it was pretty quiet to be honest,” he said.

“It was pretty chilled out with my family on Friday and Saturday, and I caught up with a few mates on Saturday night for a few beers, but I’ve got bigger things to fry.

“I’m back into pre-season and able to join the main group, so I’m probably more excited about that to be honest. I’ve had a bit of an interrupted Christmas/post-Christmas period, but all things are looking good now.”