Emerging defender Aliir Aliir has credited the experience in the Swans defence for his breakout 2016 season.

The 21-year-old has not looked back since making his debut against Brisbane in Round 6 looking comfortable against some of the competition’s best forwards.

Aliir has played the last six matches and is doing all the right things to hold his place in the side as the Swans prepare for another September campaign.

The 193cm defender has averaged 15 disposals and 4.5 marks a game but it is his composure and skill level that has shone through.

Coach John Longmire has full of praise for the youngster following Saturday night’s performance against the Saints.

“Aliir has played a fair bit in the second half of the year and he has been terrific,” Longmire said.

“He is competing well, has been really composed with the ball and is making smart decision coming off his man to help his teammates.”

“It is great to have a couple of young kids standing up to the pressure.”

That composure comes from the experienced heads surrounding the young defender.

Heath Grundy, Dane Rampe, Nick Smith and Jarrad McVeigh has all played pivotal roles in the success of the young Swans having the confidence to stand up.

“Not just the back six but the whole group is going really well,” Aliir said.

“To have Ramps, Reg, Smooch and Macca down there directing myself and Millsy has been huge.”

“We are getting more confidence as the games go.”

Aliir finished Saturday night’s match with 17 dispsosals and a career high nine marks in one of his most impressive performances so far in just an eight game career.