Warriors' starlet Glen Fisiiahi. Photo / Herald on Sunday
A rehab that included massages from his mum has Warriors' starlet Glen Fisiiahi fighting fit and ready to go.
The exciting young speedster has played three games for feeder club Auckland Vulcans on his comeback from ankle and knee damage suffered in round five against the Roosters.
After easing back
into playing, he completed a full 80 minutes last week and is expected to turn out for the Vulcans again today against Manly on Mt Smart's No 2 ground.
This week Fisiiahi declared himself ready for a return to the NRL.
"I believe I am," he said. "I've still got minor improvements to make. But I spoke to [coach] Ivan [Cleary] about it the other day. We had a pretty good talk."
There is, however, a small snag. In Fisiiahi's absence Kevin Locke has made the fullback shirt his own; Kristnan Inu has been a standout on one wing; and Manu Vatuvei has returned to the other.
It's a situation that has left Fisiiahi in a frustrating limbo.
"It is actually [frustrating] but at the same time it is a challenge," he said.
"I guess I have got to challenge myself to work harder than my team- mates. It all comes down to hard work and determination."
The clamour for Fisiiahi's NRL return is certain to go up a few decibels if the Warriors slip up against the Tigers tomorrow.
"He is getting in a position now where he is pushing to get back in and that is obviously a positive," said Cleary, who agreed Fisiiahi was a game-changing talent.
"He is but he is also a young guy and he is probably dealing with a few injuries he's never had before.
"Playing first grade you get found out quicker. It is just a balance thing. If he is feeling strong and fit and he is playing well he is the sort of guy who is hard to leave out."
The problem for now would be finding Fisiiahi a place in the line-up. One option would be to shift Inu into centre and switch Lewis Brown back into the back row.
While that would create a lethal attacking pairing, it would also be a risky move defensively.
"Things change quickly in rugby league," said Cleary, perhaps hinting that form or fitness will open up a spot for his wonder kid soon enough.
