FOLLOWING three injury-interrupted seasons, Brisbane Lions utility Brent Staker is taking a carefree approach into 2014.

Staker has been the Lions' hard-luck story since his standout first year at the club in 2010, rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament twice and playing just 22 games since.

Even after a full pre-season last year Staker hit another hurdle, requiring surgery that cost him the first seven rounds of 2013.

However, once he got his chance, the 29-year-old showed the club and supporters what they had been missing, playing 15 strong games to round out the season.

He played well as a third tall, but shone when used in the front half, kicking 21 goals with his mix of quick leading and safe marking.

After rejecting an off-season approach from Carlton, Staker signed for two more seasons at the Gabba and said he was in a relaxed frame of mind.

"Last year was all about having fun because I'd had a few setbacks," Staker said.

"I think I'll take that same approach, make every post a winner and try and learn and give back to these young guys.

"As you get older you don't stress about little things that happen on the footy field, you just take it in your stride and move on.

"You don't go home with your head in your hands worried about things. You just enjoy it and live every moment."

Staker said new coach Justin Leppitsch had helped the relaxed atmosphere since he was appointed to replace Michael Voss last September.

He said training had been structured but "the guys haven't felt on edge".

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