MIDFIELDER Harley Bennell began training with Melbourne on Tuesday, following the club's invitation last month. 

The former Gold Coast and Fremantle player, who has actively sought a return to the AFL in recent months, took part in a gym session with the Demons on his first day at AAMI Park.

Bennell will train with Melbourne throughout the pre-season, with the hope of being signed as a rookie under the AFL's Supplemental Selection rule.