Controversial Gold Coast player Nathan Bock says his focus is purely on rebuilding his AFL career rather than reports he’s being investigated by the Australia Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA).
Bock refused to comment on the ASADA rumours during a press conference on Wednesday to acknowledge his return to competitive action after a year-long injury lay-off.
The 30-year-old has been sidelined since breaking his right leg during the Suns’ round six clash last year against Fremantle.
In that time the former Adelaide star has had to deal with the reports he’s under ASADA investigation for injecting a banned peptide in December 2010 as well as rumours he’s angered senior officials over reports of bad off-field behaviour at Gold Coast nightspots.
Bock wasn’t discussing those matters however as he plans to line up for the Suns’ reserves against Brisbane’s seconds on Saturday.
“I’m not really in a position to comment on it,” Bock said when asked about the ASADA rumours.
“I’m just here to talk about getting back to footy on the weekend.
“My purpose has been just focusing on my rehab and getting back to playing some footy and that’s what I’m focusing on.”
The Suns continue to state they have heard nothing from ASADA about whether Bock or anyone involved at the club is under investigation though they welcome any approach.
Bock said he had consulted Fremantle’s Michael Barlow, Western Bulldog Dale Morris and Brisbane’s Matt McGuire about how they had handled their own recoveries from broken legs.
The former Adelaide star, who still has a titanium rod in his right leg, is set to play at least half a game against the Lions reserves in the first step to returning to the Suns’ senior line-up.
And Bock is eager to get back to the top, especially after watching the Suns’ impressive recent displays.
“The boys have shown some real promise over the last few weeks,” Bock said.
“They really took it up to Hawthorn on the weekend and I’m looking forward to regaining some fitness and seeing how it unfolds.”