The developing leadership credentials of young Bombers Zach Merrett and Joe Daniher is an encouraging aspect of the 2016 season according to coach John Worsfold.

The pair has been played in a variety of roles this year as they take strides both on and off the field.

Worsfold said their leadership was evident early on in his time with the club.

“Both he (Merrett) and Joe Daniher have been seen as leaders even when I first arrived,” he said.

“Talking to players they said that out of the younger group they were outstanding leaders and they are both in the leadership group this season which is great – they are natural at it so they don’t have to change too much.”

After 45 career games, Merrett is averaging 28.1 disposals in his eight games this season, up from 22.4 from 2015 and 15.2 in 2014.

“I have always seen that he is a very bright future talent and he is just developing into that,” Worsfold said.

“He started playing solely as a midfielder and in the last couple of weeks playing half forward with some shorter stints through the midfield, he adds a lot of value in both those positions and it’s a credit to him how well he can adapt and play those roles.

“As a young footballer, his ability to find possessions but to use the ball and play his role for the team is outstanding.”

While not having as big an impact on the scoreboard compared to previous seasons, Daniher is increasing his output in other areas.

The key forward has increased his average to disposals from 10.4 to 12.5 along with his average metres gained which has shot from 172.2m to 258.6m.

Worsfold said that the 22-year-old, who has nine goals from his eight matches, has the talent to play both as a deep forward and further up the ground.

“He will be a massive threat just playing deep forward but he is such a clever footballer, the way he sees the game and uses the ball up field, he will have a mix of that throughout his career,” he said.

Daniher also has the added ability to go into the ruck and assist Matthew Leuenberger when required.

"I've been reluctant to use Joe in the ruck because I want Joe to keep developing his forward line work, but it won't hurt him to keep his hand in doing a little bit of ruck work," Worsfold said.

 "In various weeks he will do some, and others he'll just play solely as a forward."