Essendon young gun Zach Merrett continues to push his claims for the 2014 NAB Rising Star with another dominant display against Gold Coast on Saturday afternoon.

Merrett was among the bet players against the Suns finishing with 19 disposals, 10 tackles and a goal.

The 18 year old has shone in his first season at AFL level averaging 15 dispsosals a game from his first 18 matches in the red and black.

“It has been very exciting to play most of the games throughout the year,” Merrett said.

“I still pinch myself going to training every day and running out with Jobe, Zaharakis and Heppell.

“It has been a really good year so far and I have just tried to absorb the crowd and the like."

Merrett revealed coach Mark Thompson set him a challenge in the pre-season, which helped him strive to play as many games as he could.

“I went to Bomber in the pre-season and asked where I was at and he said I probably wouldn’t play Round 1,” Merrett said.

“That gave me a bit of motivation into the pre-season then to be sub round 1 was extra special.

“To try and work my way into the team was tough with a strong club and playing with a big supporter base in front of big crowds has been great.”

The young forward said he would like to one day be able to work his way into a midfield role moving forward.

“Eventually I would love to be a midfielder, my base and fitness isn’t quiet there yet but eventually I would like to be a midfielder,” he said.

“I hope we can, obviously we will try and get a bit of confidence going forward by trying to get consistent games together.”

Merrett was the Round 11 NAB Rising Star nomination following a 22 disposal performance against the Tigers.

Veteran Paul Chapman has played a key role in the development of Merrett throughout this season assisting the hard nut in how to get the best out of his ability.

“Zach is a very exciting player who works hard, is a sponge and wants to get better every day," Chapman said.

“I can’t speak highly enough of him, it isn’t all about attack for him, he likes to get his knees dirty and likes to tackle.”

“He goes about it in the right manner and is going to be a very good footballer.”

“He does all those hard things we want all our players to do but I have tried to help him get some easier ball because he is a good ball user and he is very smart.”