Tyler Randell is excited to be returning for Sunday’s clash against the Penrith Panthers, after being sidelined with a rib injury since Round 17.
“It was a lot of running. With a rib injury you can’t do much contact,” he said about his rehabilitation.
“It was all fitness running for a good little four-week block.”
After giving the uncomfortable injury time to heal, he’s eased into contact training and feels at full strength as the side builds for this Sunday’s match at Hunter Stadium.
“I’m feeling good and can’t wait to get back out there and play this weekend,” he said.
“Today was probably my first proper team run.
“The boys really ripped in today with a tough contact session.
“My rib pulled up fine and it’s only early in the week so there’s a few more sessions to get through come Sunday.”
Randell is expected to step back into the hooking position, with Danny Levi scheduled for back surgery.
The 23-year-old says he looks forward to the opportunity to make a stamp on the position in the back end of the year.
“I thought I had a good game against Canberra, and to get injured and to miss the last four games was a bit disappointing,” he said.
“Danny needs back surgery and he will go and get that done, so there will be a good chance I will finish off the year strong.”
The Knights are ready for a spirited Penrith Panthers side on Sunday on home turf and plan to concentrate on the basics in order to start the match well.
“They have a lot of young skillful players and they like to through the ball around," he said.
“We just have to defend as a unit and start the game well and that will give us a good point to win the game.”
The Newcastle Knights taken on the Penrith Panthers at Hunter Stadium on Sunday. Click here to buy your match tickets now.