Claye Beams will be a relatively new recruit for the Brisbane Lions in 2014 – despite the fact he’s approaching his fifth AFL season.

Beams, 22, has shown that he’s more than capable of being a regular senior player at AFL level, but has faced his fair share of hurdles throughout the early stages of his career.

After a standout debut season as a rookie with the Lions Reserves in 2010, Beams was promptly elevated to the senior list and booted two goals in his first ever senior outing the following year.

However, a stress fracture in his foot cut his 2011 campaign short, before a ruptured ACL ravaged his 2013 season.

Injuries have effectively sidelined Beams for two of his three seasons on the Lions’ senior list – limiting him to just 15 AFL matches.

A long rehabilitation, coupled with some significant changes in personnel at the Club, now has Beams even more determined to make the most of his ‘fresh start’.

New Senior Coach Justin Leppitsch is another who’s excited about what Beams can potentially bring to the team.

“I have liked what I have seen of him, he is a pretty committed kid and a very good trainer,” Leppitsch told The Courier Mail.

“Hopefully he can be the extra recruit for us.

“He seems to me like a very smart footballer, he reads the game well and is a great offensive talent.”