Adelaide ruckman Reilly O'Brien says the return of a senior on-baller into the side this season is set to be a huge boost to the Crows’ midfield.

Matt Crouch spent all of 2021 on the sidelines due to a persistent groin injury but O’Brien said the 26-year-old had been training strong and worked hard to get his body right this pre-season.

Speaking to the media after being named as part of Adelaide’s leadership group, O’Brien said he was impressed with how sharp Crouch had been looking on the track.

“All the guys are taking (their training) to a new level,” O’Brien said.

“Having Matty Crouch back in there (the midfield) is going to be a huge bonus.

“He’s just so good around the ball and at the stoppages, so I’ll love being able to work with him in there.”

O’Brien joined the leadership group alongside Ben Keays, the Club announced last week.

The pair joins existing leadership group members Tom Doedee, Brodie Smith and Rory Sloane who will continue as captain for a fourth season.

O’Brien will enter his eighth campaign with the Crows this year and says he is proud to be a leader.

“I’ve always tried to set a really good example with my work ethic and my standards in my training and around the Club,” O’Brien, 26, said.

“I’ve always tried to show a lot of interest and care in a lot of guys and I think that’s something that’s come naturally.

“To be elevated to the leadership group is a real honour and something I don’t take lightly and I am really happy to be acknowledged and put in that spot to lead this group.

“In terms of culture and in terms of enjoyment around the Club, I think it’s the best it’s been since I’ve been at the Club. 

“The group is so young, full of energy and everyone loves being here and the work ethic has also stood out.