Gold Coast code-hopper Karmichael Hunt admits his AFL return this Sunday against red-hot Sydney will be a huge test.
The 27-year-old will make his first appearance of the year for the Suns after being named on an extended interchange bench for the visit by the Swans.
It ends a long battle with injury, illness and concussion for the former rugby league star which has hampered his ability to push for the selection.
Hunt says after proving his fitness in the past two weeks in the Suns' reserves, he's as ready as he'll ever be to play his first AFL game since round 23 last year.
But Hunt accepts it won't be easy against a Swans team boasting the likes of Adam Goodes, Buddy Franklin and Kurt Tippett which has won six straight including last weekend's 110-point demolition of Geelong.
"There'll be a filling out process for me early in the game but I'm looking forward to the challenge," Hunt told the Suns' website, www.goldcoastfc.com.au.
"I'm looking forward to playing with the boys again and I'm looking forward to playing against the Swans.
"Obviously Sydney are a strong opponent. Strong forward line, great midfield and obviously some very good defenders as well.
"It'll be a tough task for us but the boys are up for it and I think we're looking to bounce back after the disappointing loss to Adelaide last weekend."
The Suns will hold a final training session on Saturday before determining their final team to take on the Swans with defenders Rory Thompson (wrist), Trent McKenzie (shoulder) and Danny Stanley (shoulder) all in doubt.
Share
