North Melbourne recruit Zac Fisher is set to use his first pre-season at Arden Street to better his defensive craft as he prepares to slot into a half-back role under new coach Alastair Clarkson.
The Western Australian was traded to the Kangaroos from Carlton this off-season after seven years at Princes Park, despite being contracted until 2025.
The 25-year-old fell out of favour under Michael Voss this year and would play just a dozen matches at AFL level in 2023 - almost half of his games tally the year prior.
When Fisher did earn a reprieve, he would often be utilised in defence as opposed to his more traditional role at half-forward, with a career-best 32-disposal outing against St Kilda in Round 21 not enough to cement his place in Voss' finals plans.
At the cessation of the 2023 season, Fisher requested a move to North Melbourne for greater opportunities, with the 107-gamer also set to hone his defensive abilities as a backline weapon for the Roos.
Speaking to 7 News Melbourne, Fisher confirmed he'll be deployed in defence under Clarkson as North Melbourne look to add to their run-and-carry ball game.
"I think all failed forwards go to the backline," Fisher laughed. "That's my next step now.
"I really want to have a full pre-season working at the craft. Sort of a dashing half-back, obviously Nick Daicos did it really well last year.
"I think that's why I missed out on some finals footy (in 2023), probably that lack of trust defensively."
Fisher's move to half-back could see 2023 Rising Star winner Harry Sheezel earn more minutes in midfield or return to his more recognised role as a small forward.
Sheezel shattered disposal records this year after starting his rookie season as a dashing defender, looking to mimic Collingwood sophomore Nick Daicos as well.
The Kangaroos also added Sydney wingman Dylan Stephens during the trade period, while former Swan Toby Pink and ex-Tiger Bigoa Nyuon have also made the move to the Roos to help bolster Clarkson's rearguard.
North Melbourne are set to significantly add to their youthful ranks next week at the National Draft, with the club currently holding five first-round selections and two picks within the top three.
