Hayden Skipworth has paid tribute to Joe Daniher’s work ethic as the Bombers key forward prepares to enter his fourth AFL season. 

The 22 year old booted 34 goals last season bringing his career tally to 65. 

Skipworth has worked closely with Daniher throughout the pre-season as the Line Coach for the forwards. 

He said Daniher is bigger and working harder.

“We had a big focus on putting some kilos on him – he managed to put four (kilograms) on and hold it,” Skipworth said. 

“I think that’s helped him in his marking contests and around the ground.

“You’re seeing him not get worked off the line of the ball as easily and he’s taking a lot of contested marks.

“His overall improvement is due to his work rate.  He seems to be putting himself in more contests and working harder defensively which is creating more turnovers for us.”

Daniher picked up 18 possessions and pulled down eight marks in the Dons final NAB Challenge match against West Coast.

Shaun McKernan, Sam Grimley and the Bombers ruck division could offer key position support to Daniher throughout the season.

But Skipworth is also looking to develop a small brigade of attacking options to add to the overall forward line depth. 

“We’re trying to search for that small forward that can kick us 30 or 40 goals,” 

“We haven’t had it for a few years so we’ve got to try to develop some kids. 

“Hopefully in a few years – (Kyle) Langford, (Jayden) Laverde, Conor McKenna – these types can really hit the scoreboard.”