NAKIA Cockatoo has set his eyes on making his football return via the VFL.
Cockatoo last played AFL football in round three 2018 and has made significant ground since overcoming two PCL tears.
“I think it’s just back to full training for three or four weeks, and then maybe even a VFL game, hopefully,” he said.
“It’s just doing everything right in the gym and then get back running on the track as well … (there is) no real timeline at the moment.”
The dynamic Cat says the support of the Cats has been critical in keeping him in the right frame of mind during a frustrating period.
“If I’m ever feeling frustrated or a bit angry, I can go and just talk to someone, which is nice.
“I want to make sure everything is all right before I do go 100 per cent. I’ve got support at the club, so I’ve been speaking to people.
“But I’m a pretty positive person, so it’s been easy in a way because I don’t really think about what happened, I’m thinking about what’s going to happen next, and that’s hopefully playing some footy.”
Developing his hamstring strength is the last remaining hurdle standing in the way of his football return.
“The body is going OK at the moment, it is just trying to get my hammy strength back up to 100 per cent,” Cockatoo said.
“Hopefully, I’m back fully training soon and playing some footy. I’m making sure I’m doing everything right in the gym and making sure I’m up and running for training sessions – just trying to get the continuity in this year before I play any games.