Hawthorn midfielder Shaun Burgoyne says Tom Scully’s arrival at the club has followed a familiar path.
Bearing the reputation as one of the competition’s leading midfielders, Burgoyne crossed to the Hawks after nine seasons with Port Adelaide.
But, 26 years old at the time, Burgoyne also brought with him some worrying knee injuries.
Known as one of the competition’s best two-way runners, Scully has not played since Round 2 last year when he injured his ankle in a game against Collingwood.
Burgoyne admitted that Scully’s progress since being traded to the Hawks last October had surprised him.
“I was told he was a bit banged up, like myself,” the four-time premiership player said on Wednesday.
“But, seeing him first hand and how professional he is with his rehab and his dedication, he has made a really lasting impact on his teammates.
“He is running around now as if he never had an injury so I’m pretty excited."
The Hawthorn medical staff have an impressive history of rejuvenating injured recruits, including Burgoyne and Jaeger O’Meara.
“I think they’re the best in the game, they’ve done wonders for me to be able to keep me out there.
“I think they take their time, they’re not too fussed about the short-term goal – it’s always about the long-term health of the player.”
