In more ways than one, balance will be a focus for Mitch Wallis this preseason.

Returning from a foot fracture that cruelled his 2014 season, balance in his preseason training program will be a key to his successful return in 2015.

Meanwhile balancing the defensive ethic that has dominated his on-field roles in recent years, with his natural attacking flair, is something he’s keen to exercise.

Speaking with the Herald Sun, Wallis says he’s wary of the conscientious approach required to return from a foot fracture, and the need for variety in his training program.

“It’s a long-term injury; people think it is a broken bone that it will all be fixed in six weeks,” Wallis told the Herald Sun.

“But it is probably a management thing for two years. You have to be careful with your loads. Instead of extra running, I will probably do extra crossing training and swimming.

Wallis said he was working closely with High Performance Manager Justin Cordy to ensure he strikes the right balance in his preseason preparation.

As for his on-field role in 2015, Wallis is keen to expand on the defensive roles that were thrown his way in recent seasons, and look to add greater potency going the other way.

Negating performances against the likes of Dyson Heppell, Josh Kennedy, Marc Murphy and Luke Hodge have earned Wallis praise, but he's keen to exert a greater influence with his own disposal, rather than by purely restricting that of his direct opponent. 

“I was pretty pleased (with the run-with roles), but you have to grow your game,” Wallis said.

“It hasn’t been my natural game (to shut down on players), but it is now ingrained in me to have a defensive mindset.

“I still want to have a match-up next year, but I hope to be able to win more of the ball.”