McCartney described the Ainslie junior as ''a keeper'' and declared he was part of the Bulldogs' plans to rise back into premiership contention.

Tutt is about to start pre-season training for his fourth AFL campaign and is injury-free after hamstring problems plagued his rise through the ranks. He played just five games this year.

''He had a nice, progressive season this year. He's a young man who's so close to being a good AFL player that he doesn't even realise it,'' McCartney said.

''He just needs that little bit of belief and tenacity to take that extra bounce, grit his teeth and take that shot at goal when he's in range. It's just believing in himself and it's all upsides. You can never be certain as a coach [if someone will make it] … but he's got the attributes to make it.''

Tutt burst on to the AFL stage when he made his debut in 2011, kicking three goals with his first three touches and finishing the match with four goals and 26 disposals.

But his career since then has been stunted and he has failed to cement a regular place in the Bulldogs' game-day squad.

After being drafted at pick No.31 in 2009, Tutt has played 19 AFL games.

Hamstring injuries ruined his 2012 season and the Bulldogs sent him to the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra to fix the ongoing problems.

McCartney, who is in Canberra for the Australian Sports Commission's ''world class to world best'' conference, said Tutt was a major part of his plans for the future. Tutt's contract expires at the end of next year, but McCartney hinted he was already planning for him to sign a longer-term deal.

''He needs some development in the contested side of the game and getting involved when it's his turn,'' McCartney said.

''It is an important year for him next year, but sometimes with younger players … if they're what you want and it's where you're going, we don't worry about it.

''You have to make list changes and there is a ruthless element, but [Tutt] is part of where we're going and we want to give him every opportunity. He's a keeper.''