James McManus spoke to the media following the Captain’s Run at Hunter Stadium where the side put the finishing polishes on preparation for Monday's match against the Brisbane Broncos.
With an extended break since the team's Round 10 win against the West Tigers on Sunday, this week has been about ensuring the team times its planning correctly.
“It’s been a bit different and Monday nights are always a funny type of game,” McManus said.
“Generally I try to stay away from the football.
“I think you can burn a bit of juice watching the footy and waiting for Monday night to come around."
High spirits in camp have made for an enjoyable week with the additional time to recover suiting the Knights well.
“I think it’s been good. We needed that win and we all worked hard for it,” McManus added.
"We were all a bit sore in the next following days, which we should have been.
“The extra couple of days have been good to have us feeling right as rain and ready to go."
McManus says the previous weekend’s win has created a sense of confidence and optimism among the squad.
“I guess the determination we had in our defence and we just dug in for each other on the weekend and it’s that desperation. It’s important we have that again on the weekend,” he said.
He also assured the Knights would not take a somewhat Origin depleted Brisbane side lightly when it comes to town.
“I don’t think you can view them any differently. It’s been the same story for the Broncos for years,” McManus said.
“There’s always young enthusiastic guys getting their opportunity at this time of year and it’s their time to shine.
“They are going to come with a lot of energy and enthusiasm and have some great players in their team.
“I think the guys here are going to do a good job and full faith in who we have.”
Meanwhile, Dane Gagai returned to Knights training on Sunday and will be available for Monday night’s match after being called into Queensland Origin Camp during the week however Jeremy Smith has been ruled out with a sternum injury.
Coach Rick Stone will finalise his 17-man team one hour before kick off on Monday night.
