The 26 year-old was one of only six players to feature in all 22 senior matches for the Lions last season and proved a resounding recruiting success in his first year since moving across from West Coast.
“I know every year you say you get fitter and stronger during the pre-season, but I’m definitely feeling that way and it has shown in my testing both in the gym and on the track,” Staker said.
“Training has been really competitive. Everyone’s really cut-throat and ruthless at the moment and we’ve had some pretty tough sessions over the course of the pre-season.”
Staker’s versatility proved an asset for the side last year and he is once again prepared to play wherever the team needs him.
“I guess there’s a possibility I could play up forward, but I’m more focussing on my defensive side at the moment.”
The Broken Hill product also rejected claims that the recent off-field incidents involving some of his team-mates had been a distraction for the team.
“Our focus since we’ve come back has been really good. Nothing else influences that at all,” he said.
“I’ve been rapt with the way the players have kept their focus and I think it’s showing leading into the NAB Cup.”
“My personal opinion is that the Lions brand is still very strong. I don’t think these latest incidents are going to tarnish what we stand for. Us players can only control that by going out there and doing our thing.”
