DEFENDER Bret Thornton has admitted it is taking him and his team-mates some time to adjust to the AFL’s new push-in-the-back rule.

“As the AFL have said, they’re the rules now and we’ve just got to abide by them,” Thornton said after training at MC Labour Park on Wednesday.

“It’s going to take a bit of time but we’re working hard at training and hopefully we can take it into games and get used to it.”

The AFL Tribunal’s tough stance on head-high contact has also been a big talking point among the Carlton players, according to Thornton, now that the likes of Geelong’s Mathew Stokes and Michael Johnson of Fremantle have suffered lengthy suspensions.

“It’s big news at the moment and, once again, the AFL have made it clear – the head, you just can’t go anywhere near, and if you do, you’re going to get penalised,” the 23-year-old said.

“You’ve grown up playing one way and now new rules have come in. It’s definitely something you’re going to get used to. I wouldn’t be surprised if a few more players get done on the way.”

Thornton has described the mood around the club as fantastic as Carlton prepares to advance to its second NAB Cup Grand Final in three years.

“With ‘Pratty’ (new president Richard Pratt) coming in, off-field is starting to get a bit better now and the young players (are) really shining,” Thornton said.

“It’s a really great feeling and we’re looking forward to the Kangaroos this week and heading up to the Gold Coast and just continue on our good form.”

Thornton said it had been good to finally get out on the field and play after a tumultuous trade period in October that almost resulted in him becoming a Hawk.

“It was a pretty tough period there for a while but the club and the players have all been great,” he said.

“I just want to have a good year with Carlton and really cement my spot.”