‘Everyone is different’: Dylan Shiel defends teammate Jake Stringer

A teammate of Essendon forward Jake Stringer has hit out at critics of his fitness and preparation on the eve of the new season.

Essendon midfielder Dylan Shiel says teammate Jake Stringer has been unfairly targeted over his appearance this pre-season.

The 28-year-old forward’s unique physical attributes meant he would not look the same as other players out on the track, Shiel said.

“We’ve been pretty hard on Jake all through his career,” Shiel said.

“(There should be an) understanding that everyone is different; everyone’s body responds differently to training.

“What Jake lacks (in some areas) he makes up in other aspects of the game, with his ability to be strong and powerful.”

Jake Stringer has been on restricted duties at Essendon training as he battles hamstring tightness. Picture: Ian Currie

Stringer has been ruled out of Essendon’s round 1 clash against fierce rivals Hawthorn on Sunday, as he continues to battle hamstring tightness.

Shiel, who will play his 200th game in the Bombers’ season opener, conceded Stringer still had some work to do to return to match fitness.

“There’s certainly improvement there for him to make, but sometimes you get to a point in someone’s career where you’ve got to celebrate what they’re bringing and not so much shame them for what they’re lacking,” Shiel said.

Shiel says clever forward Alwyn Davey Jr is ‘ready’ to make his debut in round 1. Picture: Michael Willson / Getty Images

“(Stringer’s physical assets are) things that a lot of players wish they could have.”

Essendon fans have plenty of reason for excitement, even in Stringer’s absence, with Shiel declaring prized father-son pick Alwyn Davey Jr “ready” for an AFL debut against the Hawks.

“He’s ready … some of the attributes he’s been showing on the track are exceptional,” Shiel said.

“He’s got incredible speed, agility – the pressure he brings in our forward line excites me.

“I’m hoping he gets the nod for round 1, because he’s going to bring some excitement to the club.”