Gary Ablett? Yep, he’s just his normal freakishly good self.

That’s the assessment of Gold Coast ruckman Tom Nicholls as the Suns’ superstar ramps up his recovery from last year’s AFL season-ending shoulder surgery.

Ablett remains on a modified training program as his rehabilitation from the shoulder injury continues but he still made an impact last week when he clocked a personal best in the Suns’ 2km time trial.

Nicholls said the two-time Brownlow Medallist hadn’t lost any of his game-dominating ability during his time on the sidelines.

“He’s the ultimate professional so he’s done all he can to get his shoulder right,” Nicholls said.

“Seeing him out there, just his freakish self, hasn’t lost any of his touch.

“Great leadership. He’s got a great voice at training with all the boys, it’s great to have him back out there.”

Nicholls himself is on the road back from a serious injury after undergoing surgery last year to repair a damaged posterior cruciate ligament in his knee.

The 201cm ruckman has long been rated as a potential game breaker for the Suns along with fellow tall Zac Smith.

But both have been hampered by injury in their fledging careers, Smith missing most of the past two seasons while 22-year-old Nicholls has played just 15 games despite debuting in 2011.

Nicholls says he’s had enough of being judged on what he might achieve and wants to start being considered as more than just a potential star.

“It’s a bit frustrating. You hear that word talent but that’s nothing until you perform,” he said.

“It is time this year to string a few games together and get that consistency on the field.

“Hopefully myself and Zac and all the other boys can form some great ruck partnerships over the years.”