Sydney Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh believes his team has the ability to match the best sides in the competition this season.

The Swans face an in form Collingwood at the SCG on Saturday night to kick off their 2016 home and away season.

McVeigh said he’s confident in his team’s ability to compete with the top contenders.

“Ever since I have been at the football club we have been predicted to be low on the ladder,” McVeigh told Fox Footy’s On the Couch.

“Last year we were two kicks away from a Preliminary final against Fremantle over there when we didn’t have Parker, Jack, Reid and Franklin.

“We are not far off the mark and we believe in what we do. We have to get better at it, but we think what we do stacks up against the best.”

Plan your trip and arrive early

Coach John Longmire has hinted a number of fresh faces could take to the field on Saturday night.

Callum Sinclair and Michael Talia are both in line for their first game in the red and white after joining the Swans in the off-season.

There are also two senior spots available for a rookie elevation following the placement of Gary Rohan and Alex Johnson on the long term injury list.

McVeigh said it was the young talent coming through that would continue to propel the club up the ladder in 2016.

“We believe we have the talent and the young players coming through at the moment,” McVeigh said.

“We gave them a taste of finals football last year so we think we have the talent and ability to push again for a premiership.”

The co-captain will miss Saturday night’s clash with Collingwood as he continues his rehabilitation from a knee injury.

Secure your tickets for our Round 1 blockbuster against Collingwood as we return home to the SCG!