After what he admits was a slow start to the season, St Kilda defender Sam Gilbert has returned to some impressive form over the past few weeks, outlining that getting back to basics and keeping things simple was just what he needed.

“I’ve been pretty happy with my form over the past couple of weeks. I started the season off pretty slowly along with a couple of the other guys, but it’s been good to hit some reasonable form these last few weeks,” said Gilbert in an interview with saints.com.au.

“We really just focused on our training. We got together as a group and outlined that you can’t control game day, but just need to focus on training properly and do everything to give yourself the best chance to perform on match day.”

Gilbert explained that Saints Coach Ross Lyon was a vital element in getting the side back playing competitive football.

“Ross was great. He just got us to keep it simple and focus on doing the basics, which held us in good stead to turn our form around,” he said.

Ahead of tonight’s clash against the Bulldogs, Gilbert acknowledged that it is shaping up to be a big game for both teams.

“Every game is important, but it is definitely a big game (tonight). We’ve played the Bulldogs in a couple of close Preliminary Finals recently so there is a decent rivalry between our two sides.”

“But we are just focused on improving and moving forward as a group.”

The 24 year old said that while the Bulldogs had been under pressure this season, they have a number of important players that the Saints will be looking to negate.

“They have a number of quality players. Ryan Griffen is always one that you look to shut down and Gia [Daniel Gianseracusa] is another player you have to watch out for,” added Gilbert.

Now in his fifth season of AFL football, Gilbert has played a number of different positions and roles for the Saints.

The 194cm utility has appeared up forward at times this season as well as playing on champion midfielder Chris Judd in a stopping capacity, but he admits he is happy to fill any role that is required of him.

“I’m happy to play wherever the coach puts me. I’m probably more used to playing down back, but I enjoy a running role through the midfield and pushing forward at times.”