Fremantle captain Matthew Pavlich has praised the work ethic Michael Walters has displayed at the club during his rehab program.

The small forward injured his left ankle in round 3 and was slated to miss most of the home and away season following surgery.

But ‘Son Son’ could return earlier than expected, with senior coach Ross Lyon having suggested a comeback in round 18 was possible.

In 2012, Walters was sent back to train with his WAFL club Swan Districts for failing to meet the requirements of AFL football.

But Pavlich told Channel 7’s Gameday program Walters was a changed man.

“It’s amazing, his transformation in his training and his attitude,” he said.

“He is someone who works so hard and it’s great to see.

“His one-on-one boxing, or whether it’s lifting weights, his intensity in the gym at the moment is first class and we’re going to see a much improved player again, which is really dangerous for the opposition.”