With Wests Tigers losing a number of key players to injury in recent weeks, the return of Luke Garner from suspension is a boost in the right direction for Michael Maguire's side as they face off against the Newcastle Knights in a must-win game.
Garner joined the likes of Moses Mbye, Mahe Fonua, Josh Aloiai, Robbie Farah, Ben Matulino and Russell Packer on the sidelines for last week's clash against the Sea Eagles — compounded further with Jacob Liddle's season-ending injury.
With the above players all not named for Saturday's game against the Knights, Garner's return is a much needed boost for Maguire's side as they look to end a run of two consecutive defeats and keep their finals hopes alive.
The 23-year-old will slot straight back in to the run-on side with Michael Chee Kam returning to the bench and spoke of his eagerness to get back out there.
"It was pretty tough to have that weekend off," Garner admitted.
"I'm just looking forward to getting back out there now and get us back winning.
NRL.com preview Knights clash
"We need to go out there and do all the things we've applied this week.
"The only way to do that is just to work hard during the week for what we want to apply on the weekend [and] keep that plan going in to the game."
Match: Wests Tigers v Knights
Round 23 -
home Team
Wests Tigers
9th Position
away Team
Knights
11th Position
Venue: Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney
Having played both of his side's games at Campbelltown earlier this season, Garner said returning to one the club's suburban home grounds was a huge advantage for the team as they look to make it three wins in a row against the Knights, having lost just one of the last five meetings between the two sides.
"The fans are really important — the energy they bring to the games and how loyal there at every game is pretty exciting to see," Garner said.
"I'm looking forward to seeing them at Campbelltown this weekend. It's one of the grounds I really like playing at; it's a really good stadium and we always get a good crowd there and that'll help us turn things around after last week."
