Essendon champion Dustin Fletcher expects Cale Hooker to cause some headaches for opposition defences this season. 

Hooker has been training as a forward throughout the pre-season despite winning All-Australian honours as a defender in 2014. 

But Hooker’s strong showing in attack in the second half of 2015 and his aerial ability has Fletcher confident in his former teammate’s ability to make an impact in the attacking 50. 

“I think he’ll go well as a forward, I’ve played on him in practice games and he’s someone that can mark the ball really well,” Fletcher said.

“I know you’ve got to snap goals but your other number one job is to mark the ball and he’s one of the best marks at Essendon.

“I can see him being pretty hard to match up on and kicking some goals.”

Hooker booted 20 goals in just ten games in the second half of 2015.

He was ranked fourth for contested marks that season and with Joe Daniher, Tom Bellchambers and recruit James Stewart also providing strong aerial prowess, the Dons boast a number of potential combinations. 

Fletcher kept a keen eye on the Dons progress throughout 2016, his first year out of the game since he made his debut in 1993.

With the Bombers games record holder, Hooker and Michael Hurley all missing from the Dons defence, John Worsfold relied on Michael Hartley.

The former Magpie and Coburg VFL player didn’t let his Coach down, playing 19 games and providing resilience and rebound despite the weight of possession most opposition teams enjoyed.

“He stood up – I think he’s in for a good year with ‘Hurls’ beside him,” Fletcher said.

“He’s going to have some experience around him this year and obviously having the midfield back it’s going to be a good year for him.

“He obviously enjoyed his footy and you hope he can get up for round one and play. 

“I had a bit of a chat to him last year and he’s a nice kid that has got plenty of footy in front of him.”