BERNIE Vince says new senior assistant coach Simon Goodwin has added an extra dimension to the coaching group and has already made his presence felt.

Vince said Goodwin, who will take over from Paul Roos as senior coach at the end of the 2016 season, is akin to premiership coach in many respects, but also has his own take on the game.

“They’re pretty similar style coaches – Goody and Roosy – their focus is on defence and stopping the opposition,” he told 1116 SEN, as he was promoting Melbourne’s membership day on the radio station.

“He’s certainly brought some new ideas and fresh ideas in attack as well and he’s been awesome.”

Vince said he knew what to expect from Goodwin, given he played under the former Adelaide captain at the Crows.

“Goody was my captain for a fair few years in Adelaide and he was almost like a coach towards the end of his career over there,” he said.

“I knew he was going to have an immediate impact and he’s been great – not only for the older guys who have been around for a while, but especially for the younger guys coming in.

“He just loves teaching and he’s got some great ideas, so he’s been fantastic. It gives us a good direction as a whole footy club as well – knowing who’s going to take over from Roosy.

“It was great to get Roosy on board … but to have him (Goodwin) locked away –and he is such a great footy personality [as well] – was great.”

Meanwhile, Vince said his shoulder surgery at the end of last season was more serious than first thought. Although he overcame that, he then hurt his hamstring in the pre-season and was held back from the NAB Challenge.

But he is set to play for Casey in a VFL practice match against Williamstown this Saturday at Casey Fields.

“I’m aiming to play in the VFL this weekend and then hopefully round one,” he said.