Sydney speedster Justin McInerney has given Simon Goodwin major credit for the Swans' hot start to the AFL season.
Appointed director of coaching and performance at Sydney following his exit from Melbourne last year, Goodwin will come up against his former team for the first time when the Demons travel to the SCG in Sunday.
McInerney believes Melbourne's 2021 premiership coach has been "amazing" for Sydney, who have rocketed back into flag contention after missing finals last year.
"It'd be rude not to say that a lot of credit for our game this year has come from him," McInerney told AAP of Goodwin.
"The way that he's taught us and coached us on the roles, he's given us a different aspect."
McInerney, who is enjoying a career-best season taking more responsibility in the midfield, immediately clicked with Goodwin.
Speaking in January, Goodwin singled out McInerney as a player to watch this season.
"(Callum) Mills, (Isaac) Heeney, (Nick) Blakey, (Dane) Rampe, these guys are outstanding and get all the credit they deserve," Goodwin told Sydney's media department.
"But I've been really impressed with some of the football IQ, of Justin McInerney, he's one guy that stands out in that space."
McInerney is averaging 25.6 disposals a game this year, starring with three goals and 31 possessions in the opening-round demolition of Carlton.
Learning off an established senior coach who was once a champion midfielder for Adelaide is reaping rewards.
"I sit down with him once or twice a week, and go through the game and then preview the week coming up," McInerney said.
"He's been great for me and it's really great to have him at the club."
Sydney (6-1) are flying on top of the ladder, but the Demons have been this year's surprise packet to sit fourth under new coach Steven King.
Star Swans ruck Brodie Grundy, who had one season at Melbourne, will line up for his 250th game, having also played at Collingwood.
"His follow up is next to none," McInerney said of Grundy.
"He's probably the best in the in the comp for follow-up ruckmen.
"Pushes forward, gets on the end of a couple of goals.
"We love him.
"He's a different cat, but we love what he brings to the table."
