Brisbane Lions forward Michael Close joined the main training group yesterday for the first time after missing almost the entire 2015 season with a serious knee injury.

Close and Lions medical staff are pleased with the 21-year-old’s continued recovery since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in round two against North Melbourne last season.

“It was very disappointing but I’ve got to move on,” Close told LionsTV following day one of Lions' pre-season training yesterday.

“It’s a character builder. I’m looking forward to a big pre-season, I’ve been working (on my fitness) over the past few months while I’ve been home and overseas.

“Hopefully I can get fit and ready to go and play round one."

The Lions’ one to four year players participated in a skills session before working on their fitness with a solid running session on the track.

“It was a tough session but it was a good one,” said Close.

“It was good to see all the boys fit and ready to go, we’re looking for a big pre-season.”

Close spent time in Hong Kong and then New York with teammates during his break before heading home to visit family on their farm in country Victoria.

The Lions acquired Jarrad Jansen and Tom Bell through trade in the off-season and both joined teammates for the first time during the session at Coorparoo.

“I’ve met both of the fellas.

“They seem like good blokes, they’re easy going so I’m sure they’ll fit in and have a big year with the boys.”

Close said he is confident that Lions midfielder Jaden McGrath is primed for a big pre-season.

McGrath was a standout first-year draftee and played all three AFL Premiership games as well as three NAB Challenge matches in 2015, proving his potential, only to be sidelined with injury following the round three loss to Richmond.

“Young Sparra, if he can keep himself fit, he’ll be a big chance to play round one.”