Adam Cerra says Fremantle’s young midfield group haven’t spoken about needing to step up in the absence of David Mundy to start the 2020 season, they already know it’s expected of them.

And while much of the excitement and expectation will fall on top-10 draft selections Cerra, Andrew Brayshaw and new draftee Caleb Serong, Cerra can see a number of young mids who can deliver in the engine room. 

Highly-rated heading into the 2018 NAB AFL Draft, Luke Valente was said to be a draft slider to arrive at Fremantle at pick no.32.

But his first season on an AFL list was met with more frustration than promise, with a groin issue limiting the South Australian to seven WAFL and three reserves games for Peel.

Valente, who captained South Australia to the 2018 NAB AFL U18 championship, is now on the comeback trail and taking part in most of Fremantle’s pre-season training sessions.

“Luke is definitely ramping back up,” Cerra said.

“He’s had a really tough run with injuries but at the moment I think he’s doing the majority of training and a bit of match play.

“It’s really good to see him back out there. He’s really enjoying it and, hopefully, he can have a really good year with no injuries. 

“He injects a bit of class into the game. He’s elite both sides of the body and he’s got a really good game sense. He’s really valuable to us.”

Cerra said new senior coach Justin Longmuir has been encouraging the midfield to work closely together in all areas of their pre-season preparations, with captain Nat Fyfe leading the way.

“Justin’s been really strong on the midfield forming a good bond and working together, whether that’s in the meetings, in the gym or on the track,” Cerra said.

“We’re building a really strong group in there.

“Us young bucks try to pick Fyfe’s brain wherever possible and he’s nice enough to offer what he’s got.

“Especially having a young group, him and David are the oldest by a fair bit in the midfield group. 

“They’re always willing to help out, whether we’re on or off the field, they’re always there if you need.”

As for Cerra, he’s feeling optimistic he can benefit from what has been a promising pre-season so far. 

“It’s been an injury free pre-season which has been great,” Cerra said.

“I feel like I’m the fittest and strongest I’ve been since I’ve been at the club.

“I’m really looking forward to finishing off well and getting stuck into the season.”