It is no coincidence that Touk Miller’s finest hour at the highest level coincided with his greatest exposure to the midfield. The emerging star has gradually increased his time in the engine room, culminating with a near full game in there against Greater Western Sydney – his best performance yet.
 
The 19-year-old was recruited to the Gold Coast SUNS as a midfielder, but given the depth and class in that department when he first arrived, Miller was more than satisfied with an off-Broadway style role inside attacking 50. Any role was better than none.
 
But with Rodney Eade’s midfield falling over, returning and then collapsing again, the veteran mentor has gradually come around to allowing the talented Victorian to spend more and more time in the midfield. A reality Miller views as a reward, and something he is cherishing and not taking for granted.
 
“Rocket’s really rewarded me putting me in the midfield at the moment,” Miller said when reflecting on his increased exposure to life in an AFL engine room.
 
“(He’s) putting a bit of faith in me, especially with the likes of Gary Ablett and Michael Rischitelli and they’ve got a few names back now. I’m really happy being in the midfield, it’s where I feel most comfortable.”
 
“I think it’s (injuries) probably given me opportunity to be honest with you. The injuries aren’t great which is a bit of a downfall, but I think it’s given me a chance to get into the midfield and show my craft and see what I can do.
 
“I’m pretty happy with what I’ve got at the moment, I just have to keep cracking on and hopefully play midfield next year.”
 
Miller has rapidly emerged as one of the premier pressure players in the entire competition. At first it was something that guaranteed him a game the following week, regardless of what he brought from an offensive point of view.
 
Now, with his defensive game at a standard he is confident of producing on a weekly basis, last year’s pick No. 29 is aiming to improve his offensive game during the last two months of the season.
 
“I’m setting goals every week with 'Matty' Lappin and all the other coaches as well. Hopefully towards the end of the season, working on my offensive game - I think it’s a big one,” Miller said.
 
“I pride myself on my defence and may pressure around the ball. It’s probably what I modelled my game on at the start of the season, but heading towards the end of the season I really want to work on my offense and hitting the scoreboard.”