Fremantle Dockers Matthew Johnson open to wing switch as he credits Nat Fyfe match-up for growing his game

One of Fremantle’s breakout stars of last season Matt Johnson may have found himself a new position for 2024 as the competition for the Dockers’ midfield heats up. If the Dockers are to charge back up the ladder this season much will rest on the output of their young midfield stars, with the likes of Caleb Serong, Hayden Young and Andrew Brayshaw forming one of the most exciting cores in the competition. Right alongside them in 2023 was Johnson, who made his debut in round three on his way to playing the remaining 18 games and earning a Rising Star nomination in round 23. However, competition for spots is fierce in a fully-fit Dockers midfield now bulked up by Nat Fyfe and Young’s move from defence. Johnson said he is open to a run on the wing if that is what it takes to stay in the side. “I’ve been floating a bit in and out and I think that’s going to be my role this year,” Johnson said on SEN. “Long term I see myself as an inside-mid but at the moment we need some players to play wing and I’m enjoying that challenge at the moment.” Johnson has been working directly alongside a fit and firing Fyfe and the 20-year-old said competing with the two-time Brownlow medallist has been eye-opening. “It’s been a great experience for me, pushing myself against him and I think he’s enjoyed the challenge too,” he said. “I think his intensity is a real standout, he’s always going really hard and using his physicality so you have to match that if you want to compete with him. “It’s good to see Fyfey back fit and well and I hope he has a good season for us.” After a disappointing season, the Dockers have been keen to ditch excuses and the intensity around their intraclub contests has been fierce. Johnson said the midfield squeeze is lighting the fire beneath the group. “We’ve definitely brought a competitive edge to this pre-season and I’ve really enjoyed that,” he said. “We lean on each other a bit we’re obviously competing for the same spot especially me and Neil (Erasmums) we drive each other in that way and he’s a super hard worker and hopefully we can stay together for a long time.” “We’ve had a real focus on not using youth as an excuse and using it as an advantage and pushing really half and with this attitude we’re going to be really successful I think.” Fremantle backline coach, Matthew Boyd, said they have not locked down on their best 23 with Friday’s pre-season hit-out against Port Adelaide likely to be key. “We’re getting pretty close to what our best 23 looks like but the positions aren’t set in stone,” he said on SportFM. “We’re looking for good, really consistent and strong performances within our player’s roles. “Once we get that we’ll be a bit closer, after Friday night, to seeing what the round one team looks like.” The Dockers will take on the Power from 5pm at Alberton Oval.