Young Bulldog Toby McLean is quickly capturing the attention of Footscray fans with his finesse and creativity around goal.

The 19-year-old has excited VFL onlookers’ in recent weeks, most noticeably with a crafty goal from the boundary line in round three.

McLean kicked the opening two goals of the third quarter, putting his side back in contention, but it was the first of the two that had tongues wagging about the draftee’s potential.

Bulldogs Head of Development Chris Maple says it’s no surprise McLean is exciting fans.

“Toby is playing a variety of roles, he has some real talent and he’s a real excitement-machine when he’s up and about.

“He is also working hard on the defensive part of his game.”

That defensive part of McLean’s game is being developed in the VFL under the watchful eye of Footscray coach Ashley Hansen.

McLean says Hansen’s influence has been enormous to date.

“Ash is a great coach, he’s been really good with the young guys, really guiding us, really mentoring us and it’s been good so far.”

McLean is relishing the opportunity to play alongside a young list, and he says his teammates have also had an impact on his start to the season.

“I’ve been working with Bailey Dale, who obviously kicked five in one match, so I’m learning a few things off him.

“I’m getting closer with the younger boys but I’ve got Lukey Dahlhaus as my mentor so getting close to him and Tom Campbell, whose locker is next to mine.”