Adding to an already brimming midfield contingent, Lions draftees Levi Ashcroft and Sam Marshall have thrust their names into the selection mix, keeping their more established teammates on high alert.

But where the dynamic duo fit into a premiership-winning outfit remains unclear, with Brisbane star Josh Dunkley admitting it was “too early” to know when their AFL chance would come.

Ashcroft has been regarded as one of the nation’s most promising talents, with his work rate, decision-making and “incredible touch and finesse” behind three Sandringham Dragons’ titles.

He averaged 25.5 disposals in the AFL National Championships, before making 35 touches on VFL debut and joining his brother, Will, at the Lions.

Marshall, meanwhile, arrives after a Coates Talent League grand final best-on-ground performance, while also averaging 27 disposals (9.8 contested), four clearances and 3.8 tackles in the national championships to earn All Australian honours.

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But for all of their talent, there appears to be limited opportunities to break into a midfield group consisting of two-time Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale, Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft, vice-captain Hugh McCluggage and Dunkley.

Yet Dunkley was adamant the youngsters had key roles to play – in much the same way that Kai Lohmann, Logan Morris and Jaspa Fletcher did in breaking Brisbane’s 21-year title drought.

“Injuries are part of the game, they’re always going to happen, and I’m sure they’ll get their opportunity when it comes … and take it with both hands,” Dunkley said.