LUKE Hodge's teammates are in no doubt about the impact their captain will have when he return to the Hawthorn team.
Hodge is now working through an intensive training block to help him regain fitness lost since his round six knee injury.
He joined in training at the Ricoh Centre on Monday, although he still seems an unlikely starter for Friday night's clash with Carlton.
Whenever he does return, defender Josh Gibson is certain Hodge can give the Hawks a major boost.
"He looks hungry," Gibson said on Monday.
"He's missed a lot of footy and he's that type of bloke that can be away for a fair bit of time, but when he's back out there he just clicks in straight away.
"I don't know anyone who'd say they wouldn't want Luke Hodge back after missing however many games it's been.
"We'll be rapt to have him back, and I think anyone would be, because he's a superstar."
Hodge played his first game this season in round five after missing the opening month of the year with a calf injury, and suffered the knee injury the following week.
Given how little he has been able to run this season, a permanent midfield role seems a tough ask once he's back.
That could prove a bonus for Gibson and his fellow defenders, as Hodge has played some of his best football in the backline.
"I'd like him down with me, but ... he can play anywhere," Gibson said.
"I can't tell you where he'll be exactly. I just want him in the side."
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