North Melbourne vice-captain Jack Ziebell admits he was lucky to be getting a game in the seniors early last season, and is now desperate to repay the faith shown in him by coach Brad Scott.

Two broken legs in his first two AFL seasons limited Ziebell’s physical development, with the hard-working midfielder still playing catch-up when season 2011 rolled about.

Ziebell struggled in the early rounds before finding his feet mid-season, with a 41-possession outing against the Bulldogs in round 17 demonstrating what he could achieve with a sound fitness base.

Fast-forward to the present day and Ziebell is the fittest and strongest he’s ever been.

The 21-year-old hopes his increased physical powers will help him make more significant strides on the field, starting with Sunday’s clash with West Coast at Patersons Stadium.

“Twelve months ago I was probably underdone,” Ziebell said.

“I thank the coaches and give a lot of credit to the coaches for sticking by me, as well as my teammates.

“I probably should have been playing in the VFL, but they stuck fat with me and kept me in the seniors, which was a great show of faith and I was happy I could repay that.

“Twelve months on, I’m 100 per cent sure I’ve gained a lot in my aerobic conditioning. I’m the best shape I’ve been in, so hopefully that will come to the fore.”

Ziebell, who has notched 48 games since being drafted with pick No.9 in 2008, is intent on helping the ‘Roos reach the finals this season after consecutive ninth-placed finishes.

The club’s round three victory over Geelong gave fans cause for optimism, but North Melbourne face an even bigger task in toppling ladder-leading West Coast in Perth.

The Eagles have been hit hard by injuries, with key forward Josh Kennedy (ankle) joining Mark LeCras (knee), Mark Nicoski (hamstring) and Andrew Embley (shoulder) as long-term casualties.

In Kennedy’s absence, the onus will be on Jack Darling to lift his goalkicking output.

Darling has booted 12 goals in five games this season, and teammate Ash Smith was sure the 19-year-old wouldn’t be daunted by being thrust into the lead role in the forward line.

“He calls himself The King,” Smith said with a laugh.

“He pretty much tells himself that and does what he wants.”

Defensive trio Patrick McGinnity, Eric Mackenzie and debutant Jacob Brennan were called into the Eagles squad to replace Kennedy, Will Schofield (suspended) and Mitch Brown (eye).

The Roos made just one change, recalling Cameron Pedersen for the axed Levi Greenwood.