In an otherwise disappointing last month for North Melbourne, one player has continued to get better and better – Jy Simpkin.

It’s hard to believe the dynamic midfielder has barely ticked over 60 games in his AFL career, such has been his rapid rise in the competition.

“Jy’s growing all the time, and he’s just one of those kids that it’s never enough,” Rhyce Shaw told SEN.

“He’s always trying to do something else, he’s always trying to gain an advantage somewhere.

“I can see some massive growth still to come from Jy.”

Posed the question whether Simpkin was close to being considered among the “elite” midfielders in the AFL, Shaw had great praise for the 22-year-old.

“He’s certainly playing at a level than he’s teetering on that category,” he said.

“I know he wants to get there (to be an elite midfielder) and he’s really determined to help drive us forward as a group as well.”

Simpkin’s standing at the club was recognised in the pre-season, elevated to the leadership group, and he’s only gained further respect since.

Through six rounds, he’s averaged 23 disposals and 6 clearances.

In the absence of Ben Cunnington and Jack Ziebell, the number 12 has taken his game to a new level.

“I’ve been really pleased with the way he’s gone out about it. He’s a fantastic young man, and someone that will be at our club for a long time.”

The youngster should benefit from Ziebell’s return on Saturday night, providing the Roos extra midfield grunt.

“It’s great to have the skip back. We’ve been missing our enforcer,” Shaw added.

“We’ve got a couple out at the moment in ‘Cunners’ (Cunnington) and Jed Anderson as well, so to have the skip back is fantastic.

“He’ll play a bit of mid and forward for us. He’s someone who’s got the capability to do both. We think he’s got a real impact in both areas.

“I’ll be really keen to see Jack back in the side. It gives the guys a boost, no doubt.”