Richard Douglas is aiming to cement his place in the Adelaide side this season.

“Sitting down at the start of the year with Alan Stewart we didn’t put any limits on me this year,” Douglas said. “If I’m playing well, I don’t see why I can’t play all games this year.”

After debuting late in 2006, Douglas has continued to develop and has impressed in Adelaide’s first three matches.

Although being groomed as one of Adelaide’s long-term midfield prospects, Douglas has embraced the learning experience of playing in defence.

“It has been good,” he said. “I played a bit of football down back in the under-18’s so it’s not all strange to me. The boys down there are great – it’s a team within a team. Guys like McLeod, Rutten, Bassett - they’re All-Australians and it’s great to learn off them. They give plenty of feedback. It’s great.”

Throughout the NAB Cup and the early rounds of the premiership season Douglas’ development has again been fast-tracked by lining up on Eagles star duo Chris Judd and Daniel Kerr along with Western Bulldogs recruit Jason Akermanis.

“It’s great to get a role in the team anywhere,” Douglas said. “Ideally, I’d like to play in the midfield when I get more experience and a bit bigger. But I’m enjoying my time down back.”