Daniel Merrett’s unexpected move into the forward line this season might have caused some debate among Lions fans, but the regular full-back has proven to be effective in his newfound role.

Merrett was originally shifted into attack during the pre-season as a temporary fix until regular spearhead Jonathan Brown returned from a facial fracture. But a long-term injury to first-choice ruckman Matthew Leuenberger in Round 3 quickly made his role more permanent.

He has since kicked a career-best 23 goals - which ranks him second only to Jonathan Brown (26) at the Club - and provided valuable back-up as a versatile ruck option.

Although Merrett is looking more and more comfortable in front of goals these days, defender Joel Patfull believes he will eventually return to the backline.

“’Rog’ is on a temporary loan to the forward line so we still let him hang out with the back six,” Patfull told Lions fans as part of a Live Chat on Wednesday.

“I’m sure he’ll be back at some stage, although he is doing a great job up there.”

Merrett’s move has been facilitated by the likes of Patfull and Matt Maguire who have stood tall as the anchors of the Lions’ defensive unit.

Patfull, who is considered a relatively ‘small’ key defender at just 88kg, has often been forced to punch well above his weight this season, although the 100kg Maguire generally takes the biggest opposition forward.

“‘Goose’ is the king of bicep curls, so don’t think I can catch up to him,” Patfull said.

“We always find him in the gym doing a few extras.”

Only last week, Patfull held Nick Riewoldt to just 11 disposals and two marks, despite giving away 8kg and more than a few centimetres to the St Kilda skipper.

He has also been entrusted with jobs on Hawthorn’s Lance Franklin and Sydney’s Adam Goodes - who he rates as his toughest opponents.

“My toughest opponent has definitely been ‘Buddy’ Franklin, although Goodsey was pretty tough last week too.”

During his online chat, Patfull also revealed who makes the best coffee in Brisbane, what he’d be doing if it wasn’t for football, and his favourite pick-up lines.

CLICK HERE to read the full transcript from Joel Patfull’s Live Chat.