Versatile Richmond tall David Astbury is confident he is over a series of injuries which have cruelled the early part of his career.

The 21-year-old has been luckless through injury in the last two seasons, but has not missed a beat in the Tigers’ 2013 pre-season so far.

“It’s been hard work, but it’s my first pre-season I’ve had since I’ve been at the footy club,” Astbury told Roar Vision.

“It’s definitely challenging, but I’m really enjoying it.”

Astbury was a solid contributor in his debut season in the AFL in 2010, but a dislocated kneecap midway through the 2011 season led to a longer-than-expected recovery.

“The last two months has been a huge progression for me.  Obviously in the last couple of years I’ve had a few struggles with some injuries, particularly my knee,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to putting that behind me, and being fit for the season, which would be nice.”

The long sessions in the rehab group finally paid off for Astbury towards the end of the 2012 season, when strong form in the VFL saw him recalled for the final two rounds.

“I chipped away for probably six or seven weeks in the VFL.  I hadn’t played footy in 12 months, so I struggled, but I think it was important for me to realise where I was at, and where I needed to be,” he said.