THE development of younger players has been one of the real positives for St Kilda this year according to injured defender Sam Gilbert.

The Saints have won just two games from its first 10 games of the year but Gilbert said there have been encouraging signs.

“We’ve had some young guys come in with some good form in the VFL and they have continued it through to the AFL. We haven’t seen too many of our young boys come in and struggle. That’s a tribute to how our development program has been run,” Gilbert said on SEN radio.

“Jack Newnes is coming through and you’ve also got Jimmy Webster. His composure has been outstanding. We’ve also got a few who haven’t got a game but are pushing but are going to be good players.”

Gilbert has not played since injuring his knee against Collingwood in round six but says the morale at Linen House Centre has been as upbeat as ever.

“It is surprisingly positive. As a club and as a player we feel like we’re putting the effort in and playing some good footy but it hasn’t translated into wins,” he said.

“As a club we know we’re going in the right direction.”

Gilbert paid tribute to coach Scott Watters for his role in what has at times been a difficult year.

“He’s really good. He is the same in front of media that he is away from it. He is honest which is what you need from a coach,” he said.

“He is calm and definitely doesn’t lash out. He takes his time and the review on Monday is where he really gets his message across.”