But the Nirranda version feels more comfortable in defence than dominating attacking 50 like his Essendon namesake.

The apprentice bricklayer is building form for the Blues – just weeks out from a potential Warrnambool and District league finals series.

Lloyd, 20, was among fifth-placed Nirranda’s best in its loss to ladder-leader Old Collegians on Saturday, playing as a rebounding defender in tough conditions.

The second-year Blue – he landed at the club via Allansford – almost played in attack in 2016.

New co-coach Shane Threlfall earmarked Lloyd for a forward line post when he arrived for pre-season training.

But Lloyd put up his hand to remain in defence. 

“I am not a big fan of playing forward. I lose myself down there,” he said.

“I feel a lot more comfortable down back.

“I’ve played back line pretty much my whole career, even juniors.

“I can play forward but I prefer back. I like to run out of the back line, there’s a bit more freedom running out compared to the forward line.”

Lloyd, who crossed to Nirranda to play with his mates, said a stronger emphasis on training, as well as a pinch of self belief, were the catalysts for his improved output.

“I started the year a bit up and down and wasn’t playing as well but the last couple of weeks I’ve started to find form – it’s a good time to do it,” he said.

Lloyd is bullish about the Blues’ prospects too.

He believes their two co-coaches – Shane Threlfall and Shane Quick – will have them primed to break their finals drought.

“Obviously our aim is to play finals at the moment,” Lloyd said.

“If we get in the top five, we could probably go a fair way. Anything can happen from there.

“I reckon it’s as even as it’s been for a few years. Anyone can beat anyone in the top five, no one is a shoo-in to win the premiership like past years.”

Lloyd said the Blues needed to overcome their slow starts but were capable of finishing games strongly.

“Once we get our full side, I know we have the talent,” he said.

“We’re pretty fit and finish games well. It’s one of our strengths, we always finish with a lot of scoring.”

Lloyd also backed the Blues’ joint coaching strategy, saying it brought out the best in the players.

“I am really enjoying having two different variety of coaches. It’s something different and something I’ve never had before,” he said.

“Shane Threlfall is more the brains whereas Shane Quick is more the motivator.”