Melbourne coach Paul Roos reckons Nathan Jones has gone to another level in 2015.

Not bad for a bloke coming off three best and fairest awards in red and blue.

Roos said there was “no question” that Jones, in his first year as the sole captain of the Demons, has gone to another level, both as a leader and player.

We had a couple of debates last year about what he thinks is a good game and what I do, and I think we’re getting some common ground now” – Paul Roos

“I just love the balance in his game. We had a couple of debates last year about what he thinks is a good game and what I do, and I think we’re getting some common ground now,” Roos said.

“He was outstanding – as he was last week – and he was disappointed with his game against the Giants (Round 2). His last two weeks have been fantastic.

“I just think his understanding of what the coaches want now and understanding what his teammates need him to do is really good. I think he’s a better player this year than he was last year – and he won our best and fairest last year.”

Jones’s dedication, desperation, and enjoyment under the bright lights of Friday night was obvious. He was miked up for Channel 7 and his ‘sounds of the game’ was outstanding television.

He urged his teammates on all night, worked hard to win the contested footy, and used the ball brilliantly in greasy conditions.

As Roos said: “I think really what he’s focusing on now is how he can help his team, and he was exceptional.”

“I thought he had an outstanding game. He had 25 [disposals] and he’s had games where he’s had 35 [disposals], but that’s as good a game I’ve seen him play.”