Jack Bowes has been tied to the SUNS since he joined its Academy as a 13-year-old.

When he was 17 he moved to Gold Coast from Cairns to be closer to the club and spend more time at its facilities.

And on the wall of the SUNS' boardroom, in the montage of all the club's significant moments in its fledgling history, there is a photo featuring Bowes receiving his jumper on stage at the 2016 NAB AFL Draft.

The 20-year-old has a longer and stronger connection to the club than many, a reason he has felt the hits this season as the SUNS have struggled and look set for a bottom-two finish.

But Bowes says the criticism and questions on the club can have a galvanising effect.

"At times it's deserving and I think we need that. But in the long run I'd love to see us younger boys and our core group that we've got now prove everyone wrong," the midfielder told AFL.com.au. 

"You're going to go through these times and everyone does in a footy club because it's not perfect, but I see the light at the end of the tunnel. We've got really strong leaders in this group.

"You're not going out of your way to prove people wrong but for success to come one day it makes it that extra bit special rather than having it given to you on a plate. Earning things the hard way sometimes can be much more rewarding."

Bowes, who was one of four top-10 picks for the SUNS two years ago, is expected to return from a quad injury this weekend at NEAFL level after more than a month out.

He started the season spending some time in defence but has spent the majority of his second AFL year on the wing.

Bowes said he was pleased with his development before the injury struck against the Saints in round 12.

"If you look at stats it's not the greatest and you're not wowed by it, but I think I'm progressing in the things I need to off the field," he said. 

"It is frustrating because I was starting to feel a lot more comfortable at AFL level. I was making a bit more impact on games and was feeling good out there, but obviously it's only been a little break and it could be much worse."

Bowes had found his second season at the SUNS far different to his first: last year he was happy to "float" through, pick up some games and play against new opponents and at new places.

He was glad to notch 11 games in his debut AFL year but wasn't satisfied, and said the responsibility lies within everyone to turn around the SUNS. 

"I'm pretty hard on myself and I set high goals. I was happy I got through a year of footy last year and I was grateful to get 11 games but deep down I know I want to contribute more to the team," he said.

"It's on all of our shoulders at the moment. From myself to the boys who haven't played a game yet. It's an entire club thing. Everybody's got to get on the boat and row it together."