Slade Griffin is determined to get back on the field.
The nib Newcastle Knight is leaving no stone unturned in his rehabilitation from an ACL injury.
The hooker flew to Melbourne last week for a 15-minute consultation on his injured knee.
The 190-minute round trip journey was well worth it, with the surgeon clearing Griffin to remove his knee brace.
Injury Report: The latest on Griffin and Saifiti
"Slade got some really good news last week," Physical Performance Manager Balin Cupples told newcastleknights.com.au.
SEASON REVIEW: KALYN PONGA
"Out of the brace... the repair has come up really strong.
"Now we can really move into developing and strengthening that ACL repair.
"In line with that, now he's going to go into a real heavy strength phase."
According to Cupples, Griffin is now ready to start strengthening the leg muscles.
KNIGHTS SOCIAL: JOEY'S $1000 HALVES LESSON
"It's just good to see him without the brace and walking around. He's obviously been training doing plenty of off feet and upper body work," Cupples said.
"With the coaching and all the other stuff he's been doing with the group, he's been really valuable. Everyone around the squad and coaching staff are really excited for Slade to get the news and now we can start building him physically around that leg."
KP reveals his biggest challenge for 2019
Injured players and expected return dates:
Kalyn Ponga (Ankle - Round 1)
Connor Watson (Groin - Round 1)
Daniel Saifiti (Foot - Round 1)
Hymel Hunt (Shoulder - Round 1)
Tautau Moga (ACL - Early Rounds)
Jacob Saifiti (Leg - Indefinite)
Slade Griffin (ACL - Indefinite)
