Versatile defender Aliir Aliir could not be more excited about returning to training and has a clear focus on assisting to fast track the development of his younger teammates.

The 25-year-old is one of the most experienced defenders in the Sydney Swans line-up this season after the retirement of premiership defenders Jarrad McVeigh, Heath Grundy and Nick Smith last season.

Now into his seventh year, Aliir has played 51 games since making his debut in 2016, including all 22 matches last season.

“I have had some great leaders show me the ropes and I am going into my seventh year now,” Aliir said.

“I want to be able to show the younger boys what I have learnt and to help them fast track their careers.

“Barry (O’Connor) for example has come from a Gaelic background so to be able to help him with fundamentals whether that is marking, footwork or things like that.

“It is good to be able to give him that and likewise with Matt Ling and Jack Maibaum.”

Wet weather during the return to full squad training has not dampened the spirits of the intercept marking defender who is just excited to be back amongst his teammates.

“It doesn’t matter whether it is rainy or a nice sunny day the boys always find a way to enjoy what we do,” Aliir said.

“We just love training out there and being with each other, so it was a bit wet but good fun.”

The Sydney Swans will resume their season with a match up against Essendon at the SCG on Sunday, June 14.

“Being at such a great club we always prepare for what is to come each week but it is good to know who we are playing and we will use the next two weeks to prepare for that,” Aliir said.

“The boys are pretty excited and we have some more touch sessions coming up but we are excited to play Essendon.”