HAWTHORN recruit Matt Spangher believes his versatility is his biggest strength as he prepares for his first season in the brown and gold.

Spangher was traded to the Hawks on the final day of the 2012 AFL trade period, in a deal struck with the Swans that involved a swap of third round selections between the two clubs.

Originally a backman with his first club, West Coast, Spangher was used in a variety of roles in Sydney, including a stint in the forward line in 2011.

It was there where he impressed, booting a goal in each of his six matches in the forward line, including a bag of three against the Lions in Round 24, 2011.

The 25 year old believes he is capable of filling any role for the Hawks because of his experiences in different positions at his previous two clubs.

“Having played forward now, my versatility is probably a strength,” he told hawthornfc.com.au

“I’ve always typically been a good runner as well, I can run out games well.

“The versatility though, is probably something that stands out for me at the moment.”

With the introduction of the AFL’s substitute rule at the end of 2010, Hawthorn’s new recruit believes his versatility hold him in good stead to continue his career at the game’s top level.

“Especially with the new sub rule and you always hear rumours the AFL are bringing in another sub so being versatile really helps,” he said.

“And with my height as well (standing at 194cms), there’s the old cliché that tall guys don’t get any shorter as the game goes on so they are a few things I’ve got to my advantage.”

Spangher admits breaking into a side that played off for the 2012 premiership will be a difficult task. But he’s already eyeing a spot in the Club’s defence and brining a ruthless approach to the side in 2013.

“I’d predominantly be a defender but I’ve always got the ability to go forward because I have played that role for the Swans,” he said.

“Something I’ve been known for during my career so far is being a bit ruthless and sometimes reckless with my own well-being and I’m never going to change the way I play in that regard.

“Hopefully I can add that to the team, not that they really need much more because the Hawks have been successful in recent years.

But ultimately, he’s happy to play where he’s needed, even in the ruck.

“Talk to Clarko and see where he wants me, even in the ruck, though I don’t think I’ll take that position,” he joked.

“Anywhere they need me, I’m happy to contribute.”

Spangher has played 32 career games since being drafted by the Eagles in 2005