Former Essendon forward Scott Lucas has been impressed by the performances of the Bombers young brigade in recent weeks, but stressed the hard work must continue.

Lucas was one of eight young Bombers given valuable game time in 1997 when injuries affected a number of the club’s senior players. 

Those eight players - including Jason Johnson, Chris Heffernan and Justin Blumfield - went on to form the backbone of the 2000 premiership side.

Essendon has endured a similarly lengthy injury list this season, opening the door for some of its young players to experience a prolonged run in the senior side. 

“They’ve all show some good signs,” Lucas said.

“It’s just important that they keep working on their craft and dedicate themselves to being as good as they can be.

“If they can do that, they give the club a good chance of rising up the ladder.” 

Lucas played 14 seasons with Essendon and kicked 471 goals.

He won two Best and Fairest awards and formed a dynamic attacking combination with fellow key forward Matthew Lloyd.

The pair, both left footers, were central to the Bombers remarkable run in 2000 that culminated in a ten-goal Grand Final victory.

Now another left footer, Joe Daniher, leads the side’s goal kicking, 

The 21 year old has booted 31 goals so far this season.

“Joe’s going well, he’s a young player and you think back to many of the great forwards and they all take time,” Lucas said.

“He’s played some very good football.  

“All you want to see from a young player is improvement and dedication to get better and he ticks both of those boxes.”

Lucas said the Bombers could look to add some more pace through the midfield when the draft and free agency periods commence after the completion of this season. 

“Any club you talk you talk to – they are always looking for key forwards, key backs and outside speed,” he said. 

“Front and back looks ok, but some more outside run in the midfield would certainly help the inside ball winners.”