Barlow winged but in top shape

Despite a thumb injury, Fremantle midfielder Michael Barlow says he is in the best physical shape of his life. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE midfielder Michael Barlow says he's in the best pre-season shape of his career - despite being unable to mark a ball.

Barlow and teammates with less than four years experience returned to the training track this morning, but an off-season thumb operation will keep the 24-year-old from resuming full ball-work for the next two weeks.

The midfielder suffered ligament damage to his right thumb towards the end of last season.

Despite the minor setback, Barlow said he was thrilled to be fit entering the pre-season following a grinding recovery from his broken leg sustained in 2010.

"Personally, I'm in the best position I have been in my time at the footy club," Barlow said.

"I've been pretty unrestricted over the break running-wise and able to get a pretty good fitness base.

"So I'm pretty excited personally, and collectively we had a lot out there today - a few second and third-year boys really pushing their claim from day one."

Joining Barlow on the track this morning was Michael Walters, who chose to resume training a week before he was required to.

Walters was banished to the WAFL at the start of last season due to fitness issues, but returned to play a key role in Fremantle's late-season revival.

But Dylan Roberton was a noteable absentee after his request for a trade home to Victoria was unable to be accommodated.

The remainder of Fremantle's playing group - including speedy recruit Danyle Pearce - will resume training within the next fortnight.

"He's a really quick and skilful player, and an experienced player," Barlow said.

"I think the recruiting team has gone out and identified some places we need to improve, and that might be the speed on the outside. So that's something that Danyle can definitely bring to the group."

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson

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