Bailey Williams let his footy do the talking in 2018, and people listened.

Williams continued to show his flair as a rebounding defender, but also his capability through the midfield.

He was impressive for the Bulldogs early on.  He played 13 of a possible 14 games - averaging 20 disposals, five marks and 429 metres gained - before suffering a foot injury.

“With the injury list that we had, we had to throw him around a little bit,” said Bulldogs’ assistant coach, Daniel Giansiracusa.

“He got some experience as that high defender, but we were able to put him into the midfield just before he got injured.

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The 20-year-old returned in the final round of the season, after he missed seven games with the injury.

“He really showed something and was hitting the scoreboard.  We were rapt with the development of him and we think there’s plenty of growth in his game, especially in that inside mid area.”

Giansiracusa said Williams’ goal will be to increase his aerobic capacity over the pre-season, so he can stay in the midfield for longer.

“He got some experience in that area.  He knows what it’s like to play against the better midfielders in the competition,” said Giansiracusa.

“He’s really good in traffic.  He’s able to get away from his opponents.  He’s got some power to get away and he’s got a great side-step.

“He’s got to make sure he harnesses that.  When he’s out in space and he’s concentrating we think he can use the ball well.

“With that extra years’ development, we think he can be a real asset for us, not only there but in any part of the ground.  He’s a three-position player so we’re looking for him to really come on and continue to grow his game.”