Star midfielder Dan Hannebery believes only good things lie ahead for the Sydney Swans in season 2016.

Hannebery echoed co-captain Kieren Jack’s fighting words on Melbourne radio on Thursday, brushing off suggestions the Swans face an imminent decline due to the departure of key players over the off-season.

Jack was asked about - and subsequently laughed off - the so-called “naysayers” at the Swans’ Season Launch on Wednesday.

Despite the loss of experience, Hannebery says he has full faith that the next wave of players will ensure the Swans remain competitive this season.

“They’re saying we’re going to fall out of the eight or, if not that, the bottom half of the top eight,” he told SEN Breakfast.

“That’s been the case most years, probably up until Buddy arrived. Most years the critics are up against us.

“I think it’s going to be a really good year for us. We know we’ve had some experience leave but we’ve got guys to step in and fill the void.

“There will be no excuses from that point of view, and if we can get a few things right that we’ve been working on over the past few weeks, we’ll have a strong season. We’ll be disappointed if we’re not challenging in the end.”

Hannebery joined teammates for the flight to Melbourne in preparation for Friday night’s final NAB Challenge clash with Carlton.

The Swans have made just the one change to a reduced 26-man squad for the match at Etihad Stadium, bringing in speedy midfielder Jack Hiscox.

The Swans will then be sticking around to join Melbourne-based supporters for Saturday's 2016 Fan Day, presented by Volkswagen, to be held at the Basketball Hall at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre.

Click here for more details on the Swans Melbourne Fan Day.