Collingwood veteran Leon Davis has conceded he's come up short in finals and deserved the criticism his sub-par performances over several September campaigns attracted from supporters and the media.
Speaking at Gosch's Paddock on Friday morning on the eve of his 200th AFL match against Carlton, Davis said he's looking forward to playing his role for the Magpies in this year's finals and he won't be distracted by public opinion.
"It doesn't really bother me, people say what they say," Davis said.
"I didn't really help that at all by not performing, so they had the right to say whatever they want."
"All I worry about is internally and what the coaches want from me."
"As long as I go out and do what they expect of me, then I'm happy."
The 29-year-old, who made the 2009 All-Australian side as a high half-forward with the occasional run in the midfield, said he's been content to spend more time playing closer to goal this season.
He believes his form's improving and the feedback he's been getting from coach Mick Malthouse has been positive.
"I feel my work rate's been there, it's something that I speak to Mick about regularly," said Davis.
"As long as my work rate's there I know it's going to come and it will turn around for me."
"Something that I hang my hat on is that I've worked hard all year and finally it's starting to turn around."
Davis, who was a member of Collingwood's losing grand final teams of 2002 and 2003, said he believes this year's team is far superior and has the talent to go all the way.
"I think we've got great depth and the younger boys we've got coming through have improved immensely," said Davis.
"They've got a few more games under their belt and a bit more experience and they're showing a bit more leadership as well," so I think I would have to agree (we're better than in 02-03)."
Proud to become the first indigenous player to register 200 games for Collingwood, Davis paid credit to several of his closest friends at the club for helping him to overcome a rocky start.
"Blokes like Ben Johnson and Rhyce Shaw helped me out when I first came over," he said.
"There were times when I wanted to go home but I'm glad I stayed and stuck it out and I'm glad to get to 200."