2002: With Matthew Lloyd, James Hird and Mark Mercuri missing large chunks of last season, plenty was asked of Scott Lucas. He was very much the key to the Essendon forward line in the absence of those players and as such attracted quality defenders. He worked tirelessly and kicked 25 goals for the season but it was a return probably a touch down on his own expectations. But Lucas also proved to be one of the revelations of the season when he was switched to centre half back in the latter part of the year. He finished off the year in sparkling form – some believing that a full season in that position, could have seen him named the All Australian centre half back. He remains an excellent centre half forward but he now has another string to his bow.

Strengths: Lucas’ kicking is undoubtedly the greatest strength of his game. His booming left foot often puts him in goal kicking range when others will be looking to pass the ball off. His kicking was also a very important part of his game across the half back line. Once he got hold of the ball, his kicking would invariably see defence transformed to attack.

Position: This is the $64 question? Do the Essendon match committee play him forward, back or a combination of both? It would appear to be one of the major questions to be answered pre-season. Given the form he displayed late last season you would be inclined to think he might be left at centre half-back. Many would argue the half-back line is the most important line in any side – Lucas could certainly become a key player for the Bombers down back. And you would expect he might be left there unless circumstances dictate he be moved. A settled back six would be important to both the side and Lucas’ confidence.

2003: This could be a very big year for Scott Lucas should he play down back and display the brilliant form of late last season. That said, he will be critical to the success of the side wherever he plays. He is very much a leader at the club now – particularly with a number of senior players moving on. The Essendon coaching panel will want him to stamp his authority on games in the air, with his disposal and physically.

Kevin Sheedy: It is a real challenge for Scott to do well at centre half back and to be able to go forward as well. Just tweaking the team around a bit can inspire players, like when we moved Mark Harvey to centre half back he won the club’s best and fairest. Scott’s kicking and running out of defence late in the 2002 season was damaging to the opposition. If he sets his mind to it he could become a dominating half back like Paul Roos. It is naturally disappointing for him to lose mates due to salary cap restraints so there is a real leadership challenge for him this year.