Roache ready to return

Warriors rake Nathaniel Roache is back running and ready to rip into his first full pre-season in three years, as he eyes a comeback from back surgery.

Roache was touted to be the Warriors’ back-up No 9 this season, but was cruelly sidelined before a ball was even kicked and required surgery on a lumbar disc, in late February.

It has been a long road to recovery, but the 22-year-old was one of the first to report to training last week as the Warriors begin their preparations for the 2019 season.

Three surgeries in three years meant this is the first time Roache has been able to report to pre-season training on day one.

‘‘I feel awesome man, still a bit niggly having not done much all year but I’d say physically I’m at about an eight out of 10. So not bad considering,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s awesome to be around the boys and be able to join in. I have spent so much time on the sidelines so I’m loving just being able to be a part of it this year.’’

Many of the Warriors senior players, such as skipper Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, will report to training next week while those still away on international duties will be given a few additional weeks off.

A scary sight for Roache and the rest of squad, who reported on day one, was the looming figure of ‘‘wonder trainer’’ Alex Corvo waiting on halfway, whistle in hand.

Corvo was hailed as one of the keys to the Warriors’ 2018 success, whipping the group into the best shape they have been in for several seasons.

‘‘Not going to lie – it was a bit scary for me because I knew I’d struggle anyway but, no, I’m glad he’s around,’’ Roache said.