Fremantle defender Lee Spurr has backed the playing group to step up and fill the void left by the retirement of Luke McPharlin.

“There’s no doubt Luke was a great player in the competition and one of the best full backs going around,” he said.

“We’ve played finals before without Luke and we’ve got no doubt someone will step up and take his role.”

Spurr said he’s motivated by Fremantle’s recruitment during the off-season and is enjoying spending time with his new roommate, rookie Ryan Nyhuis.

Salt, sand and sweat

“The last two years I’ve taken in one of the new recruits for a couple of weeks,” he said.

“You get to see the blokes finding their feet and remember how nervous I was when I came over.

“It’s good to get some fresh blood in there.”

New recruit Harley Bennell has also quickly won over Spurr with his committed attitude and friendly approach.

“Around the club [Harley’s] been great, he trains really hard and works really hard,” he said.

“He’s really engaging in the club and wants to be a part of it and to get to know the boys.

I want my football to do the talking: Bennell

“I can’t speak highly enough of Harley in the short time that he’s been at the club so far.”

Spurr said his pre-season has been a success so far and was looking forward to the Christmas break.

“Training this time of year can be pretty tough, going through the skills, working on a few areas, but personally I’m moving well,” he said.

“I’m from Queensland so I’ll go home and see my mum and my dad.

“We don’t play many games over there, so it’s a good opportunity to get back and see them and spend some time with my family, that’s what you really cherish about Christmas.”