The real Angus Brayshaw is back

After playing just 15 games in the previous two seasons, Angus Brayshaw had to force his way back into Melbourne's senior team this year.

The former No.3 draft pick's struggles in 2016 and 2017 were mainly due to a string of concussions, so it was surprising when he was overlooked for round one after a solid pre-season.

But after earning a recall in round four against Hawthorn, Brayshaw had made a solid return – until Sunday's game against St Kilda.

The midfielder was one of the Demons' best players against the Saints, racking up a career-high 32 possessions – his previous best was 26 – along with eight inside 50s, five clearances, three rebound 50s and a goal.

After the game, Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin said Brayshaw had worked hard to regain his confidence over the past 12 months, but now appeared ready to excel in the inside role he was drafted for.

"It's exciting for us as a club to have Angus back to his best," Goodwin said.