Luke McDonald says North Melbourne is “bullish” about its prospects for 2017 and can’t wait to get into pre-season.

“We’ve turned over a new page and it’s going to give a lot of young guys a good opportunity,” McDonald told NMFC.com.au.

“A few of us have to stand up. I’m really excited about the coming year.”

McDonald said the Roos’ youth provided reason for excitement.

The first to four-year players will travel to Utah in late November, with North’s young list meaning a larger contingent will make the trip.

“In previous years there’s only been like 15 blokes there, whereas this year there’s probably going to be 20 or 30,” McDonald explained.

“It’s exciting and we can really take the club in a positive direction.”

The courageous small-defender said external perception had little impact on the players.

“I know a lot of people are going to write us off after losing such good players, but we’re bullish about our list next year,” McDonald added.

“We are really motivated about next year. We’ve got a really good, strong core group of players.

“Robbie Tarrant is only going to get better. ‘Ziebs’ (Jack Ziebell), ‘Cunners’ (Ben Cunnington), young blokes like ‘Clarkey’ (Ryan Clarke) are going to get more opportunities.

“It’s a really exciting time I reckon to be a North Melbourne supporter and I just can’t wait for the season to start, even though it’s just finished.”