Geelong free agent Steven Motlop has made a strong impression at the Power with his fitness and skills

PORT Adelaide made a major transformation of its player list in the summer with 11 changes. But who has made the biggest impression on team leader Tom Jonas during pre-season training?

Geelong free agent Steven Motlop has left a strong impression on new Port Adelaide team-mate Tom Jonas in pre-season training this summer. Picture: Tymunna Clements

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OF the 11 new faces at Alberton, who has impressed Port Adelaide team leader Tom Jonas the most?

Geelong free agent Steven Motlop.

Jonas nominates the talented but enigmatic former Cat ahead of Brisbane midfielder Tom Rockliff and Melbourne’s 2008 No. 1 draftee, Jack Watts, from the prime recruits during a busy run through the AFL player market in October and November.

Steven Motlop has impressed with his skills and fitness. Picture Sarah Reed

Jack Watts shows his stuff fending off Mitch Duncan during AFLX. Picture: Calum Robertson

“They have all impressed in different ways,” said Jonas as the Power prepares to unveil its recruits in the JLT Community Series pre-season game against West Coast in Perth on Sunday.

“They have added a real fresh dimension to the group. That (11-player) turnover creates a different atmosphere and environment around the club — and they have brought a lot of energy and new personality.

“Mots’ skills are just impeccable — and he has come back super fit, so he has been very impressive,” Jonas said of the 135-game Geelong free agent.

Port Adelaide’s leadership group, from left, Hamish Hartlett, Tom Jonas, Ollie Wines, Captain Travis Boak, Charlie Dixon, Brad Ebert and Tom Rockliff. Picture Sarah Reed

“Rockliff’s in the leadership group — and that is where he has been a real standout. He is a very honest, ruthless individual. He brought that to the group from day one.”

Jonas has endorsed the AFL decision to cut the pre-season series from three to two games.

“Two is the right number,” Jonas said. “You can always plan an internal if you need (more practice). Three becomes a little bit burdensome on some of the boys.

“Not everyone is coming in 100 per cent. To play three games is a bit drawn out, so two is a nice amount of competitive fixtures (for the pre-season).”

Port Adelaide’s two JLT Community Series matches are against West Coast on Saturday and Adelaide at Alberton Oval on March 10. The Power opens the AFL premiership season against Fremantle at Adelaide Oval on Saturday, March 24.

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