Fremantle midfielder Lachie Neale says people may forget Matt Taberner is just 22.

The promising young tall has played 28 games for 23 goals but is yet to secure a permanent spot in Fremantle’s’ starting 22.

With club champion Matthew Pavlich playing on for another season, the second tall position in Fremantle’s forward line is up for grabs.

Taberner, Michael Apeness, Jack Hannath and Alex Pearce are among those fighting for the spot.

Taberner played 15 games in 2015 and booted 14 goals.

Neale said the 198cm tall had great potential.

“Anything is possible for Matt if he puts his mind too it,” Neale said.

“He’s a really good athlete.

“He’s performed really well in the WAFL and, at times, at AFL level.”

Neale stressed that Taberner was still early in his development, particularly for a key position player.

“You have to remember he still only 22, he’s not very old and is still learning his craft,” he said.

“He will continue to do that over the pre-season and hopefully improve like everyone.”

Michael Apeness is expected to play more game time in 2015, after a serious knee-injury in 2015 hampered his season.

Jack Hannath and Alex Pearce trained strongly in Monday’s first pre-season training session.