ANTHONY Milford is back at pre-season training early as he strives to catapult last year's late season form into a big 2019.
Milford was scintillating late in the 2018 season, earning man of the match points in seven of the last 10 games.
That included a man-of-the-match performance in the final round against Manly after he had dislocated his shoulder early in the game.
His subsequent shoulder reconstruction - his second one in 12 months - has him back at training early.
He believes the decision to start two weeks early than the main group will help him chase big goals in 2019.
"That back end of the year was the best part for myself," he said.
"I want to back that up by having a big pre-season and be ready to go in round one.
"Things are looking good so far fitness wise, and the big thing is my shoulder.
"I want to get everything right."
Milford said his desire to not let the team down had driven him to stay on the field against Manly.
His desire to have his best season yet is what sent him to the surgery table and then to training early.
"It is hard, especially when it is the same shoulder," he said of facing another long rehabilitation.
"It was a bigger surgery than when it was first looked at.
"I was just happy to get it out of the way and get on with a big pre-season.
"I thought this pre-season could really benefit myself.
"I am getting the shoulder ready for round one and I am ahead of schedule now.
"I am looking forward to getting into the routine of things and getting into the business of the season."
