West Coast forward Liam Ryan has revealed he almost walked away from football last season, paying tribute to his teammates, coach and family for dragging him back from the depths of despair.

Ryan battled injury, mental-health problems, a club suspension and lost his licence for drink-driving in his debut season, before becoming one of the heroes of the epic grand final win over Collingwood with a crucial contested mark late in the match.

The 22-year-old has played every game this season and, speaking exclusively to The West Australian as he prepares to wear the club’s indigenous jumper against Melbourne at Optus Stadium tonight, said he was now a vastly different person.

“I’ve changed,” Ryan said. “I’ve matured up a bit more. I’ve really got to focus on the fun bit of playing football and the little family that I’ve got now.

“If it wasn’t for my girlfriend Evana, I would not be here (at the Eagles). I’ve come a long way. It’s been good for me.

Don't miss the latest sports news! Was $13 now $7 per week for 12 weeks* (Digital + Print) Enjoy unlimited access to thewest.com.au and everyday digital editions on any device. Thursday - Monday papers home delivered with all of the latest footy news! *T&Cs apply

“When I was going through a rough patch (integrity services manager) Peter Staples would always come and talk to me. Simmo had my back from day one.

“With the situation I was in last year, I had a lot of support from the players and staff and coaches. It made me feel like this is my home.”

Camera Icon Liam Ryan shows off the Eagles’ indigenous jumper design. Credit: Jackson Flindell

Experienced defender Lewis Jetta has played a key role in mentoring Ryan.

Jetta said he feared for Ryan’s welfare last season, but had seen a clear change in 2019.

“He’s more relaxed, more confident and is enjoying himself,” he said. “That’s all we can ask from all of the players.

“Footy is meant to be fun. If you’re not having fun, there’s no point in playing.”

Jetta said Ryan’s battles were a shining example of how clubs had improved their relationships with indigenous players.

He revealed Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin’s attendance at the AFL Players’ Association indigenous camp in Adelaide in February had been a significant moment for Aboriginal players and hoped other coaches would attend in future years.

Camera Icon West Coast Eagles indigenous players wearing the indigenous jumper design that they will play in this weekend. (L-R) Liam Ryan, Lewis Jetta and Willie Rioli. Liam Ryan checks out Lewis Jettas new haircut. Credit: Jackson Flindell The West Australian

Ryan said Eagles coach Adam Simpson already had a strong understanding of his players.

The high-flying forward pointed to the way Simpson handled his decision to walk out on West Coast’s pre-season camp as how far the game had progressed.

“That camp was too hard for me. I thought I’d go to the camp and it would be more like activities instead of hard stuff,” Ryan said.

“My temper is a bit long. It was hard so I thought I’d walk off, grab my stuff and go.

“But they supported me.

“Simmo knew. He knew what I was like and it wasn’t for me.”