Michael Walters of the Dockers celebrates a goal against Carlton.
Camera IconMichael Walters of the Dockers celebrates a goal against Carlton. Credit: Supplied/Getty Images

AFL: Fremantle’s Michael Walters credits move to midfield and coach Ross Lyon with form turnaround

Bryce LuffFremantle Gazette

FREMANTLE forward-turned midfielder Michael Walters did not believe he was set for the chopping block during a form slump earlier this year, but did “knuckle down” to make sure he returned to his best.

Walters has been in scintillating form over the last few weeks, averaging 30 disposals and a goal from matches against Essendon, Richmond and Carlton.

It has been a marked turnaround from the first six rounds where he averaged 13 disposals and managed just five goals.

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The 26-year-old, who has managed a “little ankle”, said he was confident he would eventually turn his season in the right direction.

“I was in a bit of a form slump but I knew something was going to turn around and I knuckled down,” he said.

“Mental imagery I’m pretty strong on and I work my game to that and things sort of panned out.”

Walters said he was enjoying the freedom of his move into midfield, a position he played as a junior.

He said it was a joint call with coach Ross Lyon to push him on the ball.

“I guess it sort of worked both ways,” he said.

“Ross sort of knew I was a bit down and in a bit of a form slump.

“He’s the type of coach that will work with you as well.

“He tends to know the players pretty well so he knows if you’re down and if you’re struggling and he will do things to make a change.”