After a brief stint at centre during the pre-season, Angus Crichton returns to bolster the forward pack in Round 2 and couldn't be happier about it.
Crichton was set to line-up in the centres for Round 1 against the Penrith Panthers, but was a late scratching from the side with a chest infection.
He returned to full training at the start of the week feeling fully fit and raring to go, receiving an extra rev up when told he was returning to the second row.
Round 2 Team Talk with Matt King
When asked about not being able to play in Round 1, Crichton said he was disappointed but knew it wasn't meant to be.
"You want to be playing in those games, but it just wasn’t to be," Crichton said.
"I’m just excited to be playing this weekend.
"I’m feeling really good this week, just keen to get a good week of training in.
"The aim is to get some volume and reps back in before a big one on Saturday."
Returning to his preferred second row position in Round 2, Crichton says that the experience of learning centre was invaluable.
"The pre-season was really good, the prep has been strong since returning from the Christmas break.
"The World Club Challenge was great and it’s always good to come away with a win.
"I was playing out of position, but it was a really good experience learning how to play centre and adding another string to my bow."
Known as a team player, Crichton is never one to shy away from a challenge, and is always willing to adapt to the team's situation from week-to-week.
Anytime a new opportunity presents itself, Crichton considers himself the beneficiary.
"Learning different positions and different skillsets only offers an opportunity for me to grow as a player.
"I prefer back row, but if I'm needed at centre then that's where I'll be.
"I enjoy it, and I'll always put my hand up when there's a job that needs doing."
His first challenge isn't an easy one in Round 2, with the Sea Eagles known for having a well-rounded forward pack.
Crichton isn't just well aware of their physicality, he relishes the opportunity to be well and truly involved.
"They are a physical team, I love that tough.
"Our pack will take anyone on, but we're not really focussing too much on them.
"We want to stay in our lane and do our own thing.
"We've got a good mix of skill, brutality and wit in our squad.
"That's what sets us apart and that's why we are who we are.
"I'm excited to get back into that physical side of it with the forwards, cause in the centres I missed that side of it for sure."
Midway through the week now and with a couple of solid training days left before kick off, Crichton's only goal this week is to return to 100% by the time he runs down the tunnel at Leichhardt oval.
"It's all about doing the right things and making sure that I'm ready to go.
I need to take care of my body, take care of my mind, have a clear understanding of my role and be 100% ready to start 2020
Angus Crichton
