McKinnon turns sights to 2009

Fullback Wade McKinnon's focus has already turned to the 2009 National Rugby League (NRL) season as he begins his long recovery from a knee reconstruction.

McKinnon, who was in devastating line-breaking form in his debut season for the New Zealand Warriors last year, is expected to be out for between six to nine months.

While a six-month recovery period raises the prospect of his being back before the end of the upcoming campaign, he said today that he would not rush his return to action.

Instead, he would take his time with his rehabilitation and make sure everything was done correctly.

"I'm just looking at 2009 now, just getting the leg right and being back then," he said.

McKinnon, 27, suffered the injury to his right knee during a pre-season trial against Newcastle 1-1/2 weeks ago and was operated on yesterday.

Initially, neither he nor the Warriors medical staff thought the problem was serious and believed he would be out for just two or three weeks.

However, precautionary scans showed that he had damaged the anterior cruciate ligament and would need surgery.

McKinnon recalled his shock when told the scan results.

"I was shocked because I could still do everything. I could hop on it, I could step off it, I could run," he said.

"It wasn't feeling unstable, so I had a bit of hope, but when it came down to it, I had to have the operation."

He remembered coach Ivan Cleary's reaction as: "Tell me it's not true."

McKinnon, who lives in an inner city apartment, said skipper Steve Price rang him to offer to take him in during his rehabilitation.

So, too, did league ambassador Peter "the Mad Butcher" Leitch.

At present, while he is more or less immobile, and is being looked after by his mother, Julie, who has flown over from Australia.

McKinnon said he had spoken to new Warriors recruit Brent Tate, who is returning from a similar injury.

Tate will end nine months on the sidelines by playing in the pre-season fixture against Manly on the Sunshine Coast on Friday night.

"He just told me it sucks at the start, but get through the rehab and you'll come back bigger and better," McKinnon said.

"He says his leg is a lot stronger than it's been, so you just have confidence in the rehab process."

McKinnon's injury is the most serious of his career, which also includes stints with South Sydney and Parramatta.

He expects to be able to walk again in 10 days and run in a couple of months.

While Australian bookmaker Centrebet immediately lengthened the Warriors' odds of winning the premiership on hearing of his mishap, McKinnon was confident the club would cope with his absence.

"It's not just a team of 17," he said.

"We've got a squad of 30 players there."

He said winger Patrick Ah Van had filled in well for him when he was suspended last season, while first-grade newcomer Aidan Kirk had had a good off-season.

A third option, Lance Hohaia, although not a recognised fullback, had plenty of NRL experience.

-NZPA