Tom Doedee's been there and done that when it comes to knee reconstructions.
So the Brisbane recruit can say with confidence he's ready for a timely return in Thursday's AFL grand final rematch with Collingwood.
The 27-year-old Adelaide arrival played for the Lions' VFL team on Saturday, his first game in almost 10 months following an anterior cruciate ligament rupture.
The defender suffered the same injury in 2019 at the Crows and has been trying not to overload new teammate Keidean Coleman with advice after his ACL tear in the season opener.
Doedee credited the Lions' fitness staff for melding their rehabilitation program with Adelaide's to facilitate a smooth transition.
"I was really thankful that they didn't make me just stick to their way, and I didn't just want to stick to the Crows' way," he said.
"I found a happy balance and it worked out well.
"This time I feel stronger. I feel a lot more mature and a better athlete … and have a better sense of the game after having a year out."
His likely return comes with fellow defenders Coleman, Conor McKenna and Darcy Gardiner all injured and the Lions facing the prospect of a 0-3 start against a Magpies team that's lost its first three games of the season.
"You probably wouldn't know it's 0 and 2 ... we feel like we're still doing a lot right," Doedee said.
"It's just a few different things that we can correct and then that'll turn the tide, and no better opportunity to do it than at the Gabba in front of the big crowd and Lions fans going crazy against the reigning premiers."
Unlike his first comeback, Doedee said there wasn't a single on-field moment that convinced him he was ready.
"I've been a competitive unit my whole life, so just to get back and get a win (in VFL) was a good feeling, get the Gatorade shower," he said.
"But the knee felt good, back out with the boys, and it was just overall like a good feeling after a pretty long and arduous 10 months.
"I put a lot of pressure on myself. I always have since I started sports at six or seven years old.
"I've just always wanted to perform, so I don't feel like any external pressure's getting to me in that regard."
