Taking mark of the year last AFL season was further proof that Majak Daw has ability to go with his impressive physique.

And his three-year deal last September showed the faith that North Melbourne have in him.

But potential is becoming a dirty word for the Kangaroos ruck-forward as he struggles to break into the senior team.

Daw has only managed one AFL match this year, despite fellow forward Drew Petrie’s departure to West Coast.

He has had bad luck with injuries – a knee clean out in the off season, then a fractured eye socket, a torn quad muscle and a rolled ankle.

Regardless of the circumstances, Daw is acutely aware that he has only managed 26 senior games since the Sudanese refugee made his much-heralded AFL debut in 2013.

“That’s been the biggest thing with me … it’s been spoken about, my potential, but I haven’t really played many games,” Daw said.

“It’s not the best number (his senior games), but it’s really been out of my control.

“I’m still pretty optimistic, I have two years left on my contract and hopefully I can really make something of my career.

“I just need to train, get my injuries right.”

Daw kicked three goals in the VFL last weekend and wants to repay the faith that senior coach Brad Scott has shown him.

“I think Brad, he backs me in, he wants to play me,” he said.

“I just have to hold my end of the bargain as much as I can.”

As Daw has struggled this year, fellow forwards such as Mason Wood and Taylor Garner have staked their claims in the senior team.

Coming out of the mid-season AFL bye rounds, Daw is confident he can have a big finish to the season.

“It’s been frustrating that I haven’t been able to complete training sessions and haven’t been able put my hand up for selection,” he said.

“But now I can put my hand up to play AFL footy.”