Jamie Macmillan’s promotion to North’s leadership group is a natural progression and a reward for effort, according to his teammates.

Led by skipper Andrew Swallow, the 23-year-old joins Drew Petrie, Nick Dal Santo, Scott Thompson, Jack Ziebell and Sam Gibson in the Roos’ seven-man leadership group for 2015.

Petrie said Macmillan’s elevation is “well deserved” and a testament to his attitude.

“That’s evident by the fact that he’s been voted into the position by his teammates so they all respect how he plays, how he trains and how he presents himself around the footy club,” Petrie told NMFC.com.au on Monday.

The key forward said Macmillan’s real asset is his vocal assertiveness around the club, particularly in team meetings, at training and during a game.

“You want guys who help direct and he does that through his voice playing off half-back and through the wing,” he said.

“Even today at training, I can remember numerous occasions where he was really loud and vocal, instructing his teammates and encouraging as well, so you’ve got to have a balance.”

Macmillan endured an injury-interrupted 2014, fracturing his right fibula in round three against Port Adelaide after impressing in the opening two matches.

PRESS PLAY above to watch the Swallow/Macmillan media conference | YouTube

After a prolonged absence, the 64-gamer returned to football via VFL affiliate Werribee in mid-August and was recalled to the Roos’ squad in round 23 against Melbourne.

Macmillan maintained his spot for the next couple of weeks before being struck down with a hamstring injury in the semi-final against Geelong, which ultimately ended his year.

Despite a tough 2014, Ziebell said Macmillan’s comeback from injury is a sign of his maturity and confidence.

“Injuries happen in footy but the way he’s responded this pre-season and (he’s) come back with a great attitude, worked really hard and I’m sure he’ll get the rewards this year,” he said.

Fellow leadership group member, midfielder Sam Gibson, echoes Ziebell’s thoughts.

“He was close last year (to joining the leadership group) and developed that again,” Gibson said.

“It was a bit more difficult without playing but it’s a credit to him that coming off the year (where) he didn’t play very much, the guys still voted him in.

“He’s very selfless, plays his role in the side, directs others to do the same and he’s very demanding out there.”

Macmillan, who last month signed a two-year contract extension that ties him to Arden Street until at least the end of 2017, will lead by example in his increased duties, Ziebell said.

“He sets a standard at training and definitely in the game as well, you really can count on him to play his role and that’s probably his greatest strength,” he said.

“He passionately plays his role for the team and that’s all you want in a teammate and a leader.”