Shoulder surgery late in the season to first year Bomber Marty Gleeson hindered his chance of making his AFL debut in 2013.

Gleeson impressed in his opportunities at VFL level as a half forward for most of the season showcasing his ability to find space and use the ball with precision before a shoulder injury cut his season short.

“He was a little bit stiff to cop a shoulder injury which probably hampered his year a little bit but we are really wrapt to have him coming into the footy club,” Development coach James Byrne said.

“Marty is a really natural and gifted footballer with great height, has a good blend of pace, endurance and is a really good decision maker with the footy.”

“He is just a fantastic kid who learns really well, picks things up and is a really good listener.”

Byrne is confident in the pathway Gleeson is on ahead of his second season with the red and black.

“Early in the season we probably saw him playing league footy but things eventuate and we remain really excited about the future for Marty,” he said.

“He progressed over the course of the year and his game knowledge was a lot better by the end of the season but I think he got hurt a little bit with that shoulder injury.”

The 19-year-old’s shoulder surgery leaves him with the ability to put in extra work around the gym as he continues his rehabilitation program.

“He is pretty clear on what we expect when he comes back in terms of his body and where we see him fitness wise,” Byrne said.

“He is a natural footballer so that helps him with the footy training side of things but we are certain he will give it his best opportunity.”

Gleeson has the ability to play on a forward flank, back flank or through the midfield using his natural ability to play right across the field.

“He has really good leading patterns, creates space and finds the footy so we are lucky as he can play half forward, half back or go through the midfield,” Byrne said.

“We are trying to develop in our younger players to have a bit of blend in their game across the field and he certainly has attributes to cover that.”