Carlton Coach Mick Malthouse says 2013 has been good for his side’s development, and he’s confident the Blues will continue to improve.

It comes after much talk earlier this season about new Carlton’s new processes under a new coach.

Malthouse has told SEN the game plan is falling into place.

“Overall, the level of commitment from the players to engage in a campaign of getting the structure right, going forward, being competitive, and getting through a few of the hoodoos, has been very encouraging.”

The Blues have won their past three games in a row and face Fremantle at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Malthouse says it will be a big test, against one of the best defensive sides in the competition.

“Fremantle has strangled sides right through the year.

“They’ve lost a few games, and they’ve won most of them by a fantastic game structure that they’ve all stuck to – so that’s the challenge.”

Asked about Carlton’s plans for the trade period, Malthouse confirmed the list will be cut – but he says how deep it will be cut is still to be debated.

And he hasn’t ruled out looking to recycled players over the trade period.

“You at look at what other sides cut. One man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure. 

"I’m never opposed to giving people second or third chances, because when that takes place, you get someone who's pretty hungry.”