Ryan Papenhuyzen is prepared for a huge return to the NRL, with the Storm fullback brimming with "overwhelming confidence" after a horror run with injuries.
The 25-year-old suffered a fractured patella in 2022, leading to a year-long absence from the top grade, before fracturing and disclocating his ankle during the finals series.
Papenhuyzen was once seen as a potential NSW Origin representative, but there were genuine fears that he may never play in the top grade again following his lengthy absences.
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But in positive news, the speedster has told Nine News he is on-track to line up for Melbourne in the opening round of 2024 and believes his best is yet to come.
"I think I might be playing a trial game," Papenhuyzen said.
"I think I was a bit overrawed with emotion, disappointment – (thinking) not again, who have I let down? I think visually seeing my foot that way probably didn't help.
"It's probably not natural, but I've got this overwhelming confidence that I can (get back to my best).
"I don't know if that's because of all the mental work I've done while I've been out, but I don't see why not."
With 49 tries in 72 games for the Storm, it's no secret that the club need Papenhuyzen at their best in order to compete for a premiership in the coming years – and he's taking every step possible in order to give back to the club.
During the off-season, Papenhuyzen spent time with renowned sports injury specialist Bill Knowles, travelling across to the United States on his own dime in a bid to return to the field.
"Storm have been paying me for 12 months and I haven't played … I thought I'd use a bit of the money to go fix myself up," he said.
"Coming back after my knee with Bill and the amount of confidence he gave me and reassurance … I just want that clarity around moving the same way.
"There is luck, without a doubt – there is luck in every part of life – but I feel like the harder you work, you're gonna put yourself in the picture for that luck to find you … I'm due for some good luck."
Melbourne will kick off their NRL season against reigning premiers Penrith on Friday, March 8.
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