Wests Tigers youngsters and extended NRL squad members officially returned for pre-season training this week as preparations begun for the 2020 NRL season.
High Performance Manager Andrew Gray provided an update on a number of players who are currently undergoing rehabilitation following off-season surgeries, as well as those who are continuing to recover from injuries sustained in 2019.
Having suffered a serious knee injury in Round 22 last season, Jacob Liddle took a huge step forward in his recovery this week with the removal of a knee brace.
Following a positive surgical review, the young hooker can now begin his lower body rehabilitation program with a planned return to running in the early rounds of the 2020 season.
Josh Aloiai also recently received positive news following successful wrist surgery and will commence pre-season training in a splint until further healing occurs.
Russell Packer continues his recovery from a foot injury that saw the New Zealand international require surgery towards the back end of the season, while fellow Kiwi Elijah Taylor will return to training in early December following minor knee surgery.
Matt Eisenhuth and Alex Twal both had successful groin surgery in the off-season and will resume full team training in the coming weeks in the lead up to 2020.
During their representative commitments for Samoa, both Michael Chee Kam (shoulder) and David Nofoaluma (elbow) sustained injuries but neither will require surgery, with the pair to resume pre-season training in early December.
Currently on a train-and-trial contract, Brad Abbey is also progressing well following ACL surgery with the Canberra Raiders during 2019 and is on track to return to full training in February next season.
Wests Tigers senior players will all return for pre-season training in the coming weeks as Michael Maguire’s side continue to lay a strong platform for the year ahead.
