Majak Daw had vowed not to take notice of external criticism surrounding his form.

The 23-year-old has booted five goals in four matches this season, just months after undergoing knee surgery. But in just his second season at AFL level, Daw is already the topic of media debate, with many questioning his value to the team.  

“I’ve played 10 games and in the scheme of things it’s not really a lot of games,” he said on Monday.

“There’s a massive expectation for me externally, but what I take great confidence in is my coach Brad Scott and my development coaches and my line coaches; they know where I am at as a footballer and all I have to do is listen to their advice.”

After a six-goal haul in just his fourth game, expectations on Daw’s performances have raised significantly in footballing circles.

But despite criticism of his output so far in 2014, his numbers compare favourably against players of similar experience.

“I’m always learning and I think if I know where I am at as a footballer, then there’s nothing I can do about it (his form). I’ve just got to be patient and I’ll keep improving.

“If I’m willing to keep learning, cop the criticism and work through it, I think the rest will really take care of itself.”

Wayne Carey was especially scathing on the developing forward.

“We all know that Daw is a work in progress, but how long should you persist with a guy who is returning poor numbers?,” he said in The Age last week.

Daw only too happy to throw out the challenge to the former champion.

“I’d like Wayne to come down to the club and work with me. I’m really open to anything. (He’s) one of the greatest forwards to ever play the game.”

In his first 10 games, Carey booted 10 goals (compared to Daw’s 14) and averaged 11 possessions.