AFL chief Gillon McLachlan says the pre-season competition has plenty to offer fans despite calls for it to be made more competitive.

Collingwood boss Eddie McGuire has called for the winner of the NAB Challenge to be awarded a berth in the finals, describing the current format as “glorified practice matches”.

McLachlan says he’s confident no change is needed, pointing to strong crowds at pre-season games last year as proof fans were keen to get a first glimpse of new recruits.

“It’s just as exciting but for different reasons,” he told reporters on Tuesday.