AFTER two injury-ravaged seasons, Michael Rischitelli is ready to emerge from the wilderness and reclaim his place as a first-choice Gold Coast midfielder.
The 27-year-old has been dogged by ankle, hamstring and elbow injuries over the past two years that have reduced him to 25 largely ineffective games.
But after an impressive start to his pre-season, coach Guy McKenna is convinced that Rischitelli is ready to explode in 2014.
It is easy to forget the hard-working midfielder was the Brisbane Lions’ best and fairest winner in 2010, and finished third in the Suns' inaugural count in 2011 when he played 21 games and averaged 24 disposals.
Even when he has been on the park in 2012-13, Rischitelli has been playing under sufferance.
But now his body is back to its best, and McKenna believes his deputy vice-captain is ready to show the best of his game next season.
"Supporters may have been frustrated and I'm sure Michael has been too," McKenna said.
"It was hard for him to compete at the level he wanted to because his body wouldn't let him.
"He's probably back to that first year (2011) as far as his output goes, so that's exciting.
"To get him back in our side is a big tick. It's like an in-house trade. We haven't had an experienced hard-bodied player and midfielder, which is important.
"He's battled some physical and mental demons over the last two seasons but produced some really good football. He's got that hard edge to him too… and the young guys learn from that. I'm just really excited."
Rischitelli had hamstring tendonitis in 2012 that severely restricted his ability to run and train hard and it showed in games.
However he never once complained, just battling on and making no excuses.
Then in round 12 he suffered a broken elbow against Essendon that cost him eight matches.
Rischitelli had to watch as youngsters Dion Prestia and Jaeger O'Meara rapidly produced the kind of form that demanded central midfield roles in his absence.
With Gary Ablett, David Swallow, Harley Bennell, Danny Stanley and Jarrod Harbrow already in place, and Jack Martin on the way in 2014, spots are going to be scarce.
But McKenna gave Rischitelli a huge vote of confidence, saying he was easily in their best 22, and the quietly spoken Victorian said he was excited about having another chance to show his best
"I'm feeling really good. I feel freer and lighter running, more powerful," Rischitelli said.
"I'd say it's best I've felt for few years.
"I feel good now and I'm only 27. I think I've got a few good years left. While I've had a couple of frustrating couple of years, I've still got plenty to give."
