Emerging defender Aliir Aliir is continuing to show signs he could push for a Round 1 selection after an impressive performance in the Swans inter-club practice match against GWS.

Without veteran defender Heath Grundy in Friday's practice match the bulk of the key defensive work was left to Dane Rampe, Lewis Melican and Aliir.

The 23-year-old was cruelled by injuries last pre-season which went on to affect his ability to play consistent football during the season limiting him to three matches.

Key forward Sam Reid could not be more impressed with what he has seen from his younger teammate on the training track.

“He has had a really strong pre-season and completed a lot more than he did last year and that was probably his issue last year that he wasn’t able to get out on the track,” Reid said.

“That really held him back being in just his third year to miss an entire pre-season.

“He has had a really strong pre-season this year and I think he will be pushing again to be able to come in and play down back.”

Coach John Longmire has already floated the prospect of Aliir playing through the ruck in season 2018 as the Swans explore options of how to line up.

Reid said he would not be surprised to see the exciting prospect used in various positions throughout the season.

“He is an incredible athlete and I think wherever he plays on the field he can have an impact whether that is back, forward or even in the ruck,” Reid told SEN radio.

“He is one of those guys who is such a powerful athlete so he can break away from guys and he makes the tough things look easy.”

“He would have the upper hand against the lumbering ruckman if he was to play there but he is a pretty handy defender at the same time.”

“I will leave that up to the coaching staff to work that out.”

Reid's position on the field is also a common topic of conversation with the key position player having proven his ability both as a forward and a defender.

The 195cm big man is most confident plying his trade in the forward half of the field.

“I think it is forward,” Reid said.

 “I am getting better at being able to play different positions, I have played most positions on the field, I have played back, up forward and even on the wing at times.

“I do enjoy my footy forward and I think that is where I will play majority.”