Young gun Jack Steele started the summer with one major focus: become a two-way midfielder.

On Saturday, Steele provided Saints fans with a glimpse of how the hard work is paying off.

The Canberra product was among the Saints’ best in the win over North Melbourne, polling big numbers in all the usual areas; a team-high 10 contested possessions, a game-high seven tackles and 31 pressure acts.

Steele’s brutal tackle, impressive size and imposing physicality led to the ex-Giant being deployed to shut down the opposition's best midfielder in the second half of 2018.

A defensive midfield posting looked to be his lot until the arrival of new midfield coach Brendon Lade, who had other ideas.

Lade had already identified Steele’s potential from afar when the bullish Saint kept Port Adelaide star Ollie Wines to just 18 disposals in their Round 16 clash last year.

Steele picked up 26 of his own that day, perhaps an indication of what was to come for the Canberran when then-Port Adelaide assistant coach Lade made the move to Moorabbin.

READ: Steele sharpens attacking focus

But for the Saint who’s hellbent on transforming himself, maybe the most encouraging statistic from Saturday’s win was on the scoresheet.

Two goals straight against the Kangaroos served to not only equal his career-best return, but confirm his newfound offensive purpose is paying dividends.

His six score involvements and four clearances to go with his 89% disposal efficiency rating only further his case for a redefined role as a genuine two-way midfielder.

By his own admission, a major criterion for Steele’s success over the pre-season was to increase his athleticism.

“This pre-season’s a bit different to last, I’ve really tried to work on my tank and drop a few kilos, just so it’s easier to get around the ground and move in between contests,” Steele told saints.com.au.

“I’ve been able to do that and I’m running well, so all I’ve got to do now is transition that into the season when it comes around.”

HIGHLIGHTS: JLT 1 | Saints v North Melbourne

And in scorching sun and oppressive 38-degree conditions, his augmented fitness didn’t let him down.

Saturday shaped as the young Saint’s first test run in his new role, and fans were left with one lasting impression.

Jack Steele will be one to watch in Season 2019.