Darcy Moore, Jamie Elliott have impressed at training, according to Mason Cox

Darcy Moore has been a “pain in the arse” for Magpies forward Mason Cox this summer but the giant American believes that bodes well for his teammate having a big year.

Mason Cox battles with Jordan Roughead at training. Picture: AFL Media

Collingwood giant Mason Cox has given an early indication that injury-prone Darcy Moore will again be ­prepared for a key defensive post this year.

Cox revealed he had been shadowed by his teammate during competitive work and match simulation.

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“He’s been playing on me, so it’s been a pain in the arse,” the American quipped.

“But he’s been doing really well. He’s marking the ball ­really well, judging it really well and his top speed’s a lot faster than me.

“He’s going really well by my standards.”

Moore, 23, signed a new two-year deal at the end of last season, rejecting interest from Sydney, after missing the finals series because of a hamstring injury.

Recurring hamstring problems prevented Pies forward Jamie Elliott from playing at all last season.

All indications are Darcy Moore will again play in defence this season. Picture: Getty Images

Moore and Elliott travelled to Germany in November to seek advice from Hans-Wilhelm Muller-Wohlfahrt, the club doctor at Bayern Munich and renowned hamstring specialist, in an attempt to solve their continual woes.

Elliott has been “tracking really well”, according to Cox, who said the 26-year-old had been looking dangerous.

“I haven’t played too much with him, but every time he goes out there, he’s a threat to deal with,” Cox said.

“Just one of those freak athletes that does things that are just mind-boggling to you.”

Cox, who is anticipating more attention from opposition sides this season, said consistency was a key focus for him and he wanted to put an end to his “up and down” performances.

Collingwood travelled to Sale on Monday for a community camp.

Cox, who hails from Texas, said it was a part of ­Victoria he had yet to see.