NEW FREMANTLE recruit Scott Gumbleton has reached out to Matthew Pavlich to help him become a better player.

In an interview with fremantlefc.com.au, Gumbleton revealed that he had a frank discussion with the six-time All Australian before Christmas.

"I told Matthew I wanted him to be really hard on me and teach me, and he said, that’s fine," Gumbleton said.

"We’ve been working closely in training and in the weights room and we’ve started to get a good relationship going.

"Obviously, to learn off him is the most exciting thing for me, that’s what I’m looking forward to, learning how to play in the forward line.

"He’s a fantastic player and it would be great to earn the chance to play next to him."

Spurr named in Freo's leadership group

Gumbleton has made a good impression since he was traded to Fremantle from Essendon last November.

He managed just 35 games in seven seasons with the Bombers after being recruited with pick No. 2 in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft.

Despite having a long history of injury problems the 25-year-old has impressed his new coach Ross Lyon with his work ethic.

"He's a really hard worker," Lyon said.  

"He hasn't missed one training session. He's working hard to try and grab a spot."

Gumbleton is full of praise for his new coach and says he knows exactly where he stands with him.

"Ross is hard but fair, which is great for a coach.

"He’s easy to talk to and very honest with you, which really helps you improve.

"In all football clubs there’s always competition for spots.

"All I can focus on is putting in the hard work and putting my hand up to do a job, and then, hopefully, perform if I get the opportunity."

Gumbleton is pushing his case to be included in the Dockers' first NAB Challenge match against West Coast on February 18 at Arena Joondalup.