Assistant coach Stuart Dew says Port Adelaide is preparing for St Kilda to bring a "strong brand of footy" to their Gather Round clash. Image: Matt Sampson.

Port Adelaide assistant coach Stuart Dew said the return of key tall Todd Marshall has given the side welcome flexibility heading into Sunday night’s Gather Round clash with St Kilda at Adelaide Oval.

Speaking at Alberton this morning, Dew discussed the club's selection options, reflected on St Kilda as an opponent, shared his thoughts on emerging defender Josh Lai and provided his views on Gather Round as an event.

Dew on Todd Marshall

"Todd coming back in is good for us. His return adds a little bit more experience again. He can provide flexibility for us. He's good in the air and his skills for a big man are really good. He can play forward or back, so if things happen during the game, he's very flexible."

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Stuart Dew press conference - 11 April

Assistant coach Stuart Dew spoke to Adelaide media ahead of Port Adelaide's Gather Round match up against the Saints.

Dew on Miles Bergman

"Miles clearly started his journey down back and then spent time in the midfield. I think he'll probably settle a little bit through the midfield and also down back at times. He's got such a powerful kick — effortless over 60 metres."

Miles Bergman's flexibility and power are just a couple one of his key strengths as a player. Image: Matt Sampson.

Dew on St Kilda as an opponent

"They've been hard to play against. All their games have been close — I know the margin against Brisbane blew out a little at the end but that was in the last five minutes. When you look at all their numbers, they've been in every game pretty much to the end. They're always hard to play against and they're clearly playing a good, strong brand of footy. We prepare for their best. We'll need to be at our best to get the result."

Captain's Run - 11 April

Port Adelaide's playing group hit Alberton Oval for their captain's run and a signing session ahead of Gather Round. Images: Matt Sampson.
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Dew on Port Adelaide's selection

"We expect that the players that come in from week to week can play their role and get the job done. We're certainly not just going through the motions — there's a bit of pressure on, but there's also opportunity for the youth to cement their spot."

Dew on Josh Lai

"It's been a quick progression for him — he was playing suburban footy a couple of years ago and he's an AFL player now. But that's the no ceiling mentality. Although he's come from suburban footy, get him in the right environment and people will thrive."

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Dew on Gather Round

"Obviously Adelaide has the accommodation, the ovals and the outside attractions. I'm not sure any other city can do it as good as South Australia is doing it currently. I think the league and the players and staff all buy into it."