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Melbourne captain Max Gawn says he's comfortable with Clayton Oliver playing in their AFL season opener against Sydney, or sitting out the game.

Clayton Oliver's successful return means Melbourne now must decide whether to play him in their AFL season opener on March 7.

After a tumultuous off-season, the star Demons onballer played on Sunday in a reserves hit-out against Richmond and showed impressive touch.

Captain Max Gawn says he's inspired by the work is Oliver is putting into himself after well-documented off-field problems.

But Gawn is unfussed if Oliver is held back from their opening game against Sydney at the SCG.

"There will be a discussion about it. I'm comfortable both ways," Gawn said.

"To be fair, our sole focus has been getting Clarrie back to training.

"With Clarrie it's more day to day, so we just keep him going."

Gawn has been working closely with Oliver and says his opinion of his teammate has changed.

"I'm incredibly inspired by what Clarrie is doing right now. He's a guy who's had a lot of trouble ... most of it is of his own accord," Gawn said.

"He's still getting some crossroads along the way, but he's focused on being the best person he can.

"I'm starting to be inspired by the Clayton Oliver story.

"He still lets me down from time to time, we're still incredibly close, but see him run out there ... I hope we have him on the right path and I'm excited for what he can bring this year"