There are no hard feelings at the Brisbane Lions about Mitch Clark defecting to AFL rivals Melbourne.

But ruckman Matthew Leuenberger admits that could all change when they run out against him this weekend.

Leuenberger may yet line up against his former team-mate in the ruck on the Gold Coast on Saturday night in a pre-season cup opening round that will also feature the Suns.

Clark will take on the Lions barely 12 months after appearing to have established himself in their hierarchy.

Clark was elevated to the Lions leadership group last season but the WA-born dangerman was lured away by a cashed-up Demons offer despite initially requesting a trade to Fremantle.

Leuenberger said the club had moved on but conceded Clark may receive a not-so-subtle reminder about his defection at Metricon Stadium this weekend.

“It’s been a couple of months since he has been gone – the group has moved on without him, found new leaders to replace him,” he said on Monday.

“But I am sure when we get out there a few boys will take it a bit differently – whatever happens, happens.”

Armed with his best pre-season to date, Leuenberger looked forward to the challenge of testing himself against Clark.

“You hear different things about how they are thinking about using him,” he said.

“The last I read he was going to be used as a key forward but I wouldn’t be surprised if he got in the ruck for a little bit.

“I know his game but he would know mine as well – it would be a good hit out if we came up against each other.”

Leuenberger is held in such high regard, he may yet replace Clark in the leadership group alongside Brown and vice-captains Daniel Merrett, Jed Adcock, Tom Rockliff and Josh Drummond.

Leuenberger has impressed while all but playing a lone hand in the ruck.

Despite putting his knee issues of 2009 well behind him, a fighting fit Leuenberger has appreciated the load being shared at the club thanks to the arrival of No.8 draft pick Billy Longer and veteran ex-Western Bulldog Ben Hudson.

Their ruck stocks have been further boosted by a fit Sam Michael.

“It is the first time in quite a while we’ve had four fit ruckmen in the squad,” Leuenberger said.

“Billy is probably one of the most ready youngsters I have seen for footy and Ben Hudson is a quality veteran, and there’s Sam there as well.

“However, they decide to play us we should have a good advantage.”