Lachlan Brook believes he is physically stronger entering his second full pre-season.
The 17-year-old is one of the most talented youngsters on the books of Adelaide United, having made his Reds debut at just 16 against Chinese outfit Jiangsu Suning in the AFC Champions League in May 2017.
Brook admitted he has enjoyed the start to another pre-season and admits he has adapted to the heavy workload a lot more seamlessly in contrast to 12 months ago.
“I feel that compared to last pre-season I feel a lot stronger and therefore able to complete the sessions not necessarily more easier but in a better way,” Brook said.
“But I think there’s still a lot of room for improvement and obviously I’ve enjoyed it like always, training is great so it’s been good.”
The midfielder added that experiencing a strong campaign in the National Premier League SA (NPL) has also translated into positive performances in the recent friendlies.
Brook scored six goals in 12 matches with the Young Reds before earning a well-deserved break ahead of pre-season.
“I think playing in the NPL has definitely helped me,” he said.
“Because obviously getting game time is probably the most important thing to a player.
“At the end of the day you can train as much as you want, but if you can’t put it into practice, into a game then there’s really no point.
“So definitely NPL has helped and then with the pre-season games I’ve felt I’ve done well and happy with how I’m going.”
Brook appeared in one match last campaign with the senior side, playing 66 minutes in Round 16’s 0-0 draw against Sydney FC at Coopers Stadium.
Brook said his biggest aim this season was to accumulate as many minutes as possible in order to enhance his development.
“Game time is definitely the biggest (goal),” he said.
“Hopefully I can get some A-League minutes throughout the season which is one of my goals.”
The left-footed midfielder is known for his attacking qualities and so far during the trial matches has provided a sense of dynamism to the team when he has started or brought on as a substitute.
Brook also revealed the knowledge imparted to him by veterans and fellow midfielders in United Captain, Isaías, and Vince Lia has also been extremely beneficial in his progression.
“Just little pieces of advice that they give in games and even at training is really helpful,” he said.
“But even just watching them in training as well is really good for me and just seeing how they move around is important.”
