The sliding door moment that sparked Neal-Bullen

Emerging Melbourne midfielder Alex Neal-Bullen has credited a more professional approach and a major show of faith from coach Simon Goodwin as the triggers for his rapid development.

The 22-year-old managed just 15 games in his first two seasons at the Dees, but became a regular in 2017, averaging 18.9 disposals from his 19 games.

He started 2018 on the right note, finishing with 19 disposals and two goals in Saturday’s JLT Community Series win against North Melbourne in Hobart.

Former Adelaide premiership star Goodwin took over from Paul Roos as coach at the end of 2016, and Neal-Bullen revealed the sliding doors moment that inspired the rejuvenation.

“The key moment for me was at the end of my second year where I had been a bit inconsistent, not only on the field but off the field probably with certain behaviours,” Neal-Bullen told SEN Breakfast.

“Goody sat me down at the end of the year, he was obviously taking over as coach and just instilled a lot of confidence in me and said ‘I believe in you Alex, as long as you believe in yourself and you’re willing to put in the work.’”

Neal-Bullen candidly admitted in the early days he was just happy to be living his dream away from home and getting a few senior games.

While he believed he worked hard, hearing the advice from one of his childhood heroes made him want to prove that Goodwin was right with his show of faith.

“As an 18-year-old you get into the system and it’s all new, especially for me coming from Adelaide I was just loving living in Melbourne, playing footy, got a few games under my belt,” he said.

“I’ve always thought I was a hard worker, but I found this other kick of energy that made me determined to prove Goody right.

“He’s probably someone who’s had the most impact on me as a young footballer, and hopefully I can repay the faith over the next five years if possible.”

To hear Alex Neal-Bullen's chat with Garry and Tim on SEN Breakfast listen in the player below: