Neale started where he left off last year in Sunday's pre-season match against Port Adelaide in a typically dominant all-action display.

The 26-year-old claimed 46 disposals, 12 clearances, seven inside 50s and a goal in the Lions' 21-point loss to the Power at Burpengary.

Despite his dominance, Lions assistant coach Jed Adcock felt Neale could have used the large amount of ball he received better, particularly early in the game.

"He's an A-Grader, he's a very good player," Adcock said.

"Could we turn those 46 and get a bit more from them? That'd be nice.

"He was probably one of the guys early that overused handball. We saw when he used it by foot a bit more later in the game how much more effective it was."

While Neale has room to improve, Adcock was in no doubt that he sets the standard for his teammates with his professionalism and work ethic.

"He works as hard as anyone," he said.

"There's no secret to games of footy. The harder you work, you turn up to more contests, you're going to put yourself in good spots. That's Lachie."

Australian Associated Press