Brisbane young gun makes his All-Australian picks, praises in-form Lions

Brisbane young gun Will Ashcroft believes multiple Lions teammates are in line for an All-Australian blazer this year.

Last season’s runners-up have recovered from a slow start to the campaign to now sit just outside the top four ahead of this weekend’s clash with reigning premiers Collingwood.

Co-captains Lachie Neale and Harris Andrews have been central to the turnaround, while veteran Dayne Zorko has excelled across half-back.

Also in the All-Australian mix, according to Ashcroft, is hard-nosed midfielder Josh Dunkley and lockdown defender Brandon Starcevich

“Lachie’s had an unbelievable year,” Ashcroft said on SEN Breakfast.

“Harris down back (as well). ‘Zorks’ absolutely. Going into that role he’s flourished back there.

“I think ‘Dunks’ goes under the radar a little bit with his valuable he is to our side.

“They are probably the main four, but there are plenty of others. ‘Starce’ is having an unbelievable year as well.”

The Lions had just one All-Australian last season - Charlie Cameron - despite finishing second in the home and away season.

Speaking specifically about Neale, he has put together another stellar season which has him averaging 29.4 disposals, 13.4 contested possessions, 7.5 clearances - all team highs.

Ashcroft is loving playing alongside the two-time Brownlow Medallist and is learning plenty about his craft from an expert in ground ball gets.

“He’s obviously a superstar of the game,” Ashcroft said of his skipper.

“I’m really grateful to play alongside him, but also learn off him throughout the week as well.

“Just how clean he is under pressure, on the ground, or reading it off the ruckman. He just takes it so cleanly which gives him time really.

“He prides himself on that, he works hard on it and everyone follows in behind him. He’s obviously doing a great job again this year.”

Another Lion who has flourished of late is former No.1 draft pick Cam Rayner.

The 24-year-old is enjoying the best form of his career to date which has Ashcroft bullish about that’s ahead.

“I love playing alongside him,” said the 20-year-old Ashcroft.

“His confidence is sky-high and he’s just playing with freedom and flair.

“He’s taking the game on, that’s when he’s playing at his best when he’s releasing the shackles and going for it.

“It’s been absolutely awesome to play alongside him and see him take off the last month or so.

“Hopefully he can continue his form.”

The Lions will be intent on bouncing back form last week’s loss to GWS when they meet the Magpies at the MCG from 4:35pm AEST on Saturday.