Fremantle Docker Harley Bennell will play his first game of football in 16 months when he takes to the field for Peel Thunder in a clash against East Perth this weekend.
Recurring calf injuries have kept the Pinjarra football product out of the game since he arrived at Fremantle via trade in 2015.
But the former number two draft pick will look to put his injury woes behind him as he makes his comeback through the Thunder.
Bennell last appeared on the footy field for the Thunder in round one of the 2016 season, where he amassed 23 disposals and four goals before re-injuring his calf in a losing effort for Peel.
It was a brief glimpse at the wealth of talent the slick-moving midfielder has to offer the Dockers.
Fremantle coach Ross Lyon told Seven News that Bennell would see just 60 minutes of game time, but said it was a step in the right direction.
“It’s really pleasing, but we don’t expect a huge amount,” he said.
“We know everyone will get there and watch him but for Harley, who has persisted and persevered and showed good resilience, it’s a step in the right direction.
“He’ll only play about 60 minutes but it’s a good start.”
Bennell could be key cog in Fremantle’s re-build as they attempt to climb back into premiership contention over the coming years.
Widely regarded as one of the best talents in the game, Bennell would add serious pace and skill to the Dockers’ line-up and is still just 24-years-old.
He has booted 92 goals across his 81 career games with the Gold Coast Suns.