Sydney Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh says the team looks forward to prize recruit Lance Franklin getting better with each game after the star forward kicked his first goals in red-and-white.
Held goalless in his first game against West Coast, Franklin kicked two majors in the first half of the Swans' final pre-season hit-out against the Brisbane Lions.
He sat out the second half with a corked knee, but coach John Longmire said Franklin would be fine for the opening round derby against Greater Western Sydney on Saturday.
"He was good. His pressure last week was really good and again this week," McVeigh said.
"He got a bit more of the ball. The delivery this week to him was a lot better.
"I think last week we had (only) three inside 50s in one quarter, so you can't expect him to get too much of the ball when that happens.
"He was a lot better yesterday and we look forward to him getting better each game when he becomes familiar with our group as well."
McVeigh was one of several midfielders restored to the side who were rested for the Eagles game.
Their return provided improved service to Franklin, who had only six touches the previous week.
"(Luke) Parker was probably the only one (midfielder) who really missed through a bit of an eye injury, but he'll be back this week," McVeigh said.
"It's good to get some run in the legs and get our stoppage work going and that contact that you don't have at training, and the running which we we're pleased to get into the boys."
McVeigh displayed fine personal form with a 34-possession best-on-ground performance in the Swans' 27-point win in Burpengary.
"It was good to find a bit of the ball. The team played quite well, which was pleasing as well," McVeigh said.
"We've got a little bit to go to get into some Swans football but hopefully we can produce that this week."
McVeigh wasn't too worried the Swans would start the season without three of their best 22 in Adam Goodes, Kurt Tippett and Alex Johnson.
"They are super players and it's great to have them out there, but if they are not there we're not too concerned," McVeigh said.
"We'll back the guys who are out there and the guys that have done the job before and done it last year."
