Tom Trbojevic will end a six-year hiatus from the international arena this month, with the Manly superstar a surprise selection in the Kangaroos squad.
The fullback struggled again this year with injury, battling his way through two finals games with a shoulder issue that many believe would have required surgery.
But in a boost for Australia ahead of the Pacific Championships, the 28-year-old avoided an operation and also brushed aside suggestions he was dealing with a knee injury.
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“The knee was always fine,” Trbojevic told media on Wednesday.
Tom Trbojevic was battered and bruised late in the season. Getty
“With the shoulder, I thought I was actually gonna need surgery. The doctor had given me that indication, but he wasn’t 100 per cent sure.
“We went and saw the surgeon after we finished up and he said that he doesn’t think we need it, so we moved on from there.”
Trbojevic was among a host of changes in Mal Meninga’s squad, with incumbent skipper James Tedesco and champion halfback Daly Cherry-Evans among the casualties.
Kalyn Ponga was also overlooked after a whirlwind availability saga, but Trbojevic wasn’t willing to crucify the Knights fullback for his outlook on rep football.
“Everyone is in different circumstances,” he said.
Kalyn Ponga ruled himself out of Kangaroos selection before changing his mind. NRL Photos
“I can’t talk on behalf of anyone else, but all I know is that I’m really excited to put that jersey back on and get back into camp.
“I’ve always considered it the highest representative honour you can wear. I’m really looking forward to wearing the jersey again, I haven’t worn it for six or so years.”
Another man who won’t be donning the green and gold jumper is NSW captain Jake Trbojevic and his younger brother admits it was a bitter pill to swallow.
“He’s obviously disappointed, he loves playing for Australia, like everyone,” Tom said.
“He is disappointed, but he understands that’s footy and he’ll move on.”