TALENTED Sydney Swans midfielder Ed Barlow is confident the worst of his injury concerns are behind him after successfully completing three reserves games in his injury-ridden season.

Promoted from the club's rookie list late last year after a debut and three more games, including the elimination final against Collingwood, Barlow has been compared to dual Brownlow Medallist teammate Adam Goodes because of his athletic ability, good ball use and nous for gathering possessions.

And all looked well for the 21-year-old to enhance that reputation before a hamstring injury struck in round seven against the Western Bulldogs.

But Barlow is confident his body will stand up in the remaining weeks of season 2008, whether it's for the Swans reserves or the senior team.

"The body feels good," he said. "I can now go out and play with confidence rather than worry about whether my hamstring will stand up."

After feeling his hamstring twinge in the clash with the Dogs, it only got worse.

"I could feel it twinging consistently in the first few weeks and then it started to slightly tear," he said.

"This went on for about two months and it was very frustrating and got me down. Initially, it was back-related and then it became a muscle issue."

While Barlow played against the West Coast Eagles in round 11, he was forced to the sidelines straight after.

Despite the disappointment, he is keen to end 2008 on a positive note.

"I had built myself up for a big year and put high expectations upon myself so it is disappointing to miss a large chunk of the year injured, however, I am now concentrating on finishing the season strongly," he said.

"It would be great to crack a game in the seniors but, if not, I will work hard with the reserves and try to win a premiership with them.

"My focus after that will be on having a big pre-season and coming back stronger and better next year and hopefully I will have more luck with injuries."