Sydney Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh says his young teammates should be proud of their efforts so far this season.

The Swans are second on the ladder with 10 wins for the season, sitting only behind Geelong on percentage.

Players will return to training on Friday after a mid-season bye, as preparations ramp up for a Round 15 battle against the Western Bulldogs at the SCG.

It has been the form of the younger players that has impressed the co-captain so far this season, with Callum Mills, George Hewett, Zak Jones and Isaac Heeney all having an impact.

McVeigh said the emerging players on Sydney’s list will be crucial in the second half of 2016.

“It’s been good to blood those youngsters as they’re getting a few games under their belt under pressure,” McVeigh said.

“There will only be good things from here on in for those boys and the footy club.”

It’s shaping as a significant month ahead for the Swans following the bye with matches against the Bulldogs, Geelong and Hawthorn.

McVeigh said his side is looking forward to the challenge.

“After the bye we have a really hard three weeks coming up – we have a rest now but we know deep down what’s in store for us,” he said.

“We can now relax mentally before getting back in a big game against the Bulldogs here at the SCG, which should be fun.”