Gray feeling fine and ready to Power up

ROBBIE Gray predicts a massive response to tough summers for Jack Watts and Ollie Wines while his grim 2017 post-season provides true perspective as Port Adelaide plots its 2019 fightback.

Gray rebounded from testicular cancer to win a fourth All-Australian jumper last sea- son and a special place in Alberton folklore. Reaching the 200-game milestone against Melbourne in Port’s MCG season opener will be sweet given where Gray has come from.

“I am feeling fine, I was able to bounce back. I have checkups every now and again but so far so good and all clear,” said Gray who received a shock diagnosis in October 2017, two months before wife Annabel gave birth to son Aston.

“It was a difficult time for myself and family no doubt, but got through it and happy to be nice and healthy.

“I am ready to attack another season.”

Gray, 30, was the only Power player to average at least four clearances and 1.5 goals per game last season. The triple club champion ranked elite for contested possessions, clearances, score involvements and goals, resisting the march of father time.

“To have played last year and get back to what I love doing, playing footy, was really good,” Gray said.

Gray skipped the AFLX and Port’s intraclub trials, following a modified program de- signed to protect the right knee that was reconstructed in 2012.

Port coach Ken Hinkley concedes Watts must become a “more reliable person” after a text message controversy this year and Gray says former No.1 Watts is on the right track.

“He has been working really hard and looking to have a big year no doubt,” Gray said.