Thu Sep 12 06:55:53 UTC 2024: ## Brisbane Lions Star Lachie Neale Continues to Impress, According to Former Teammate Luke Hodge

Brisbane Lions midfielder Lachie Neale, already a two-time Brownlow Medallist, is getting better with age, according to former teammate and four-time premiership winner Luke Hodge.

Hodge, who witnessed Neale’s development firsthand during their time together at the Lions, believes the 31-year-old has reached a new level of play. “The football he played between rounds 10 and 20 this year was as good as he’s played in his career,” Hodge said.

Neale’s improvement, according to Hodge, lies in his selfless attitude. “He’s happy to go make it a 2v1, he’s happy to go play a selfless role so his midfielders can get the ball as well,” Hodge explained.

This new approach, combined with Neale’s already impressive skills, makes him an almost complete player, Hodge said. Neale’s agility, sidestep, and ability to break from contests have all improved, making him an even more dangerous player on the field.

Hodge, who is a Hawthorn legend, expressed his support for both the Hawks and the Lions in this year’s finals series. He praised the Hawks’ recent form, stating that they have been the competition’s best team since May, thanks in part to the coaching of Sam Mitchell.

With both the Lions and Hawks facing do-or-die encounters this weekend, Hodge is hoping for success for both teams. He is particularly interested in seeing the Lions overcome their recent heartbreak in the grand final and preliminary final.

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