BRISBANE Lions fullback Matt Maguire is hoping a strong showing against Hawthorn superstar Lance Franklin will help push his claims for a contract extension beyond this season.

Since moving to the Lions from St Kilda the end of 2009, Maguire has been in and out of the team, playing 22 of a possible 36 matches.

The 27-year-old has been given another chance with the season-ending back injury to regular fullback Daniel Merrett, and with his contract up for renewal, it's a chance Maguire wants to take, starting with Saturday's match in Launceston.

"I’m definitely keen and really enjoying my time at Brisbane," he said.

"I’d love to be around for a couple of games yet.

"Obviously I want to perform as well as I can, but that’s about being part of a winning team and performing my role.

"It’s been hard to get a full contingent on the field, but it has been good getting a lot of games in the younger kids. It’s an exciting time for the club.

"Even if the finals might not be on the agenda this year, we are definitely looking to improving and building our game."

With coach Michael Voss providing opportunities to the club's youngsters - 10 players have made their debut in 2011 - Maguire admitted he felt his position was under threat.

On Saturday, he gets his chance to show Voss what he can do against Franklin if the Hawthorn spearhead is able to overcome an ankle injury sustained against Collingwood last weekend.

It won't be the first time Maguire has marked Franklin, as he took on a raw 'Buddy' in his St Kilda days.

"We had a win that day. Lance had only played a few games," Maguire said.

"He’s a tough one to play because he can do everything. He can get up the field and burn you on the way back in one-on-one contests and he’s very good on the ground.

"If I get the job on him this week I will try and negate his running ability and keep him out of as many contests as possible.

"You are always looking to challenge yourself on the best players on the comp."

Maguire was soundly beaten by Port Adelaide's Jay Schulz last Sunday, who kicked seven goals. The Lions backman said the clash with Hawthorn was a chance to make amends.

"I’m trying to improve every week and each week is a new challenge to get the most out of myself," he said.

"I haven’t hit my best form by any stretch. There’s still a lot of improvement in me."

Michael Whiting covers Brisbane Lions news for afl.com.au. Follow him on Twitter: @mike_whiting