ALEX Neal-Bullen says his leadership has been a feature of his development over the pre-season.

The utility, who had his best AFL season in 2017, said it was an area he felt had improved over the summer.

“I’m feeling great. I feel like I’ve matured into a little leader, here at the footy club,” he told melbournefc.com.au on the first day of the club's pre-season camp on the Sunshine Coast.

“I feel comfortable standing up in front of the whole group, so that’s something that comes with being here in my fourth year now.

“It’s gone quick, but I’m really looking forward to where we can take this group.”

Neal-Bullen, 22, said he now felt more at ease in his AFL journey. 

Alex Neal-Bullen in action on Monday afternoon in Maroochydore (Photo: Matthew Goodrope)

“I know how it all works now and I came back in good nick,” the 34-game player said. 

“It’s allowed me to really do well on the track, but understanding this is only the pre-season, so we’ve got a lot of hard work still to go before round one.

“I’m feeling good at the moment.”

Meanwhile, Neal-Bullen said he was looking forward to having a crack at AFLX, when Melbourne plays Carlton, North Melbourne and potentially in a Grand Final on Friday, February 16 at Etihad Stadium.

“It’s exciting – a new dynamic to the game. It’ll be a nice challenge and something different as well and something to look forward to,” he said.

“I’ve heard it’s going to be a quick game, so we’ll all be able to test ourselves – that’s for sure.”