Lions Senior Coach Michael Voss believes Brent Staker’s versatility will be a welcome addition to the senior side, but remains realistic in his expectations of the returning 28-year-old.

Voss told The Courier Mail on Friday that Staker would likely take some time to adapt after being sidelined for a significant period.

"We've been very patient with him and we don't expect him to pick up where he left off, but there's no doubt he makes us a better footy team,” Voss said.

"It's not just about what he is able to do, having him back and able to play a variety of roles frees up other players to perform different jobs which gives us flexibility and a little bit of unpredictability."

“The modern game demands having players like Stakes who can go forward or back and we will certainly be tapping into that, no doubt," he said.

Voss said the Lions’ Match Committee had little hesitation in selecting Staker, who completed a near full pre-season and has since played three consecutive NEAFL games.  

"He's feeling quite confident about it all so there's no point holding him back. It's time to push the button," Voss said.

"He's been very diligent with his rehab, done all his training and played a handful of matches for the reserves. The last step is having the belief to pull the trigger."