WESTERN Bulldogs fans can expect to see more of Shaun Higgins displaying his trademark polish across half-back this season.
Higgins was best afield in the club's practice match against Carlton, his first full competitive game of football since a navicular fracture in his foot derailed his 2013 season.
The 25-year-old notched up 33 possessions out of the backline to play a central role in the Bulldogs' 17-point win.
Higgins said coach Brendan McCartney had suggested the move to defence in a bid to enhance the team's transition game.
"It was flagged midway through last year," Higgins said.
"I did a bit of work watching games and footage of the way we wanted to play and I think it's a good link for me and a good link for the team as well.
"It was something Macca thought about. I did pre-season with the backs and have been in that group."
Higgins' positional change is good news for those who are seeking a potential NAB AFL Fantasy bargain this season. Higgins is listed as a forward at the tempting price of $305,400 in the competition.
Although it was not officially recorded, Higgins' 33 possessions against the Blues would have netted him a cool 101 Fantasy points.
Pleasingly, for those who have doubts over Higgins' durability, he said his recovery from Friday night was right on track.
"Yeah I pulled up well. It was obviously the first full game hit-out for myself and I feel really good and recovered as good as I did playing the half the week before," he said.
"So I'm looking forward to another good week on the track – where we've got a little bit of a hit-out on Thursday night – and then obviously (hit) round one full steam ahead."
The Bulldogs kick off their 2014 campaign against West Coast at Patersons Stadium on March 23.
"For myself, it's been a long time coming," he said.
