While it’s only early in the pre-season, Rhyce Shaw can’t help but be impressed by a trio of emerging North Melbourne youngsters.

“I know we can pump ourselves up at this time of year and get ahead of ourselves, but if I can just talk about the condition they’ve come back in, Jy Simpkin, Luke Davies-Uniacke and Cam Zurhaar, just the way they’ve come back in good shape and ready to go is really, really pleasing,” Shaw told SEN.

The first-to-four year group enjoyed a two week head-start on preparations for 2020, taking full advantage.   

“It’s a really good sign for us and I’m really excited by those guys, because they are what we’re about now and into the future,” Shaw said.

Simpkin and Zurhaar enjoyed breakout seasons in 2019, playing 21 and 19 games respectively, while Davies-Uniacke illustrated why he’s so highly rated, with several strong performances.

And while a new season presents more opportunities for the Roos’ rising stars, Shaw and his new-look coaching team could also welcome back some valuable experience in defence.

Majak Daw has recovered from a hamstring injury and is making strong progress on the track.

“He’s (Daw) going really well. He came back early and trained with our first to four year players on Monday and Friday, got back into the swing of things and it’s been really good to see him out there,” Shaw added.

“I’m looking forward to that as much as you are ‘Kingy’ (David King). I think he’s going to be a fantastic addition to our team and when he’s up and going he’s of the elite standard of defender. That can only help us.

“I don’t see any reason why he wouldn’t be up for selection Round 1.”

Listen to the full interview with Shaw on SEN below.