St Kilda midfielder Blake Acres has been rewarded for his breakout performance against Melbourne on Saturday with the Round 6 NAB Rising Star nomination.

The 20-year-old earned the recognition on the back of collecting a career-high 28 possessions, 12 score involvements, seven marks, five tackles, two goals and 399 metres of gained territory in his 13th appearance at senior level and third for 2016.

After returning from the VFL for the second time this season, Acres made an emphatic return to Alan Richardson’s side and admits his aim is to become a permanent fixture in the Saints senior setup.

“It has been a bit frustrating coming in and out, but ‘Richo’ knows what he’s doing,” Acres told saints.com.au following the announcement on Monday.

“He’s given me things I need to work on. I’ve still got a lot to do. Hopefully I can just keep backing it up week-in, week-out now.

“I’ve been trying to do it my first two years now, so hopefully I can get it done this year.”

St Kilda’s improved midfield depth has ensured competition for spots at Linen House Centre has been fierce, something Acres has been a victim of in times during his infancy, but something he believes is important for not only team success but individual performance.

“Competition for spots is healthy for the club. It’s made me work a lot harder, so when I get in the side I want to be able to hold my spot, I don’t want to keep coming out like I have been. So that competition for spots is really healthy for the team,” Acres said.

Playing across half-forward, with short bursts through the middle of the ground, the West Australian, former first-round draftee, is eyeing a more prominent onball role in the not too distant future.

“Richo’s got me playing a half-forward role, pinch hitting in the midfield role, a bit on the wing,” Acres said.

“I’m enjoying it, it’s good. Hopefully I can keep building and get a bit more midfield time.” 

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