BRISBANE Lion recruit Matt Maguire says he knew St Kilda had grave doubts about his speed and agility last year, but says the program he has been working on with the Lions this year has helped put any doubts to bed.

After a shocking run with injuries, Maguire was delisted by St Kilda at the end of last year, playing most of 2009 in the VFL.

Maguire, 25, broke his tibia and fibula in 2006 and had a rod inserted into his legs, soon after this he was diagnosed with compartment syndrome in his calf which required further surgery. In 2007 foot stress fractures kept him out of the game for two years.

The Brisbane Lions threw him a lifeline when they drafted him at pick 91 in the 2009 NAB AFL Draft and since then he has played every game this season.

"Coming back from my injuries, speed and agility was always a question mark that I think St Kilda had over me," Maguire told afl.com.au.

“To the credit of the Brisbane strength and conditioning staff they’ve put together a program for me and it’s been great for me. Just getting a lot of my strength back and feeling really good across the ground.

"I suppose that was the main area that I felt I needed to work on and I think I’ve taken a few steps but would like to keep improving.”

Maguire believes the move to the Lions has reinvigorated him and lifted his football to another level.

“I definitely feel refreshed,” Maguire said.

“I’ve always been passionate about my footy and trying to get the best out of myself.

"Even last year when things were hard I always tried to improve and make myself a better player so that if I did come in I’d be as good and accomplished as I could be.”

Since arriving at the Lions, Maguire has made the most of his opportunities, playing all five games so far this season and being a solid contributor down back. 

“Brisbane’s great, I’m really enjoying it up there; obviously with the team winning it makes footy a lot more enjoyable,” Maguire said.

“It’s just nice to be back out there and we’ve got a good young group up there and lots of young players coming through adding to the older guys up there as well which is great.”