Cooper keen to rebuild his game

NOW Quade Cooper ( pictured) is nearly done with Renovation Rescue on his new house, it’s time to polish and restore his own game.

Few have more to gain from the National Rugby Championship kick- off against the Fijian Drua at Ballymore tomorrow than the flyhalf cut from the Wallabies squad six weeks ago.

The 2017 Cooper is not bitter, twisted or alienated by coach Michael Cheika’s decision to omit him.

Far from it. His view could not be more balanced and he is determined to turn his midseason gym gains into a resonant run of NRC games for Brisbane City.

Earning a recall for a 71st Test is the aim but Cooper showed his maturity yesterday by not making the NRC all about him, rather every level of player with a goal.

“It’s a great pathway whether you’re trying to get back in the Wallabies, trying to get more exposure to be a better Super Rugby player, getting more chances as a club player or being seen overseas,” Cooper said.

“Everyone in rugby ambition.

“The fire’s there for me ... and the biggest thing is playing footy again.”

Cooper has been manning the paintbrush and hammer between weights and training over the past 12 weeks to renovate his home in Brisbane.

“I want my house back ... I’m living out of a cave at the back with no kitchen so it’s eating out morning, lunch and dinner,” Cooper said.

“If that’s the biggest stress in my life I’m in a good head space.” has