Reds tackle machine Anthony Faingaa will on Thursday make a timely comeback from shoulder surgery brought upon by his defensive hunger.
Lauded by Queensland coach Ewen McKenzie as the “best body-on-the-line player” he’s coached, Wallabies centre Faingaa will return for the Super Rugby champions’ final trial against the Western Force in Perth.
He underwent surgery to remove a piece of bone in his left shoulder after carrying an AC problem through most of last year.
The injury flared midway through the Reds’ successful campaign and never completely healed as a he revelled in his duty as a defensive backline linchpin.
Faingaa finally bit the bullet to have surgery two weeks after returning from the Wallabies’ spring tour before Christmas.
“It’s been one of those things that has been recurring,” the 25-year-old said.
“When you play for your country or your state you just suck it up and keep going.
“It’s one of those things, do you not play a Test match or for your state because your shoulder’s sore? You just play.”
A hamstring injury to No.13 contender Aidan Toua in the 27-20 trial win over the Brumbies has prompted McKenzie to call Faingaa back a week before the Super Rugby season-opener against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney.
While most attention has been given to Quade Cooper’s replacement at five-eighth, McKenzie is just as concerned about getting his centre pairing right with Faingaa likely to renew his partnership with the rising Ben Tapuai.
Faingaa had the option to bypass surgery but chose to risk a late start to a long season to ensure his joint was equipped to handle another year of midfield carnage.
“It’s actually been a blessing in disguise,” he said.
“It’s been quite a good off-season for myself.
“Because I tackle so much and that’s one of my major strong points it’s why I wanted to get it right.
“I’m feeling fresh and I can’t wait for this season to start.”
Faingaa’s twin brother Saia will miss the Force clash on Thursday night due to ankle problem which isn’t expected to keep him out of the February 25 grudge match with the Waratahs.