BOOM Hawthorn recruit Tom Scully has complete confidence he will make a full recovery from the ankle injury that partly contributed to his surprise departure from Greater Western Sydney.

He suffered a fractured fibula and a syndesmosis injury in a freak tangle in round two this year and didn't play for the Giants again.

The 27-year-old outside midfielder wasn't able to get back before the end of the season despite several attempts and was traded to the Hawks on Tuesday in exchange for a future fourth-round pick, despite having two years left on his contract, in what might become the steal of the 2018 NAB AFL Trade Period.

But first, he has to get his ankle right and there is no timeframe as to when he will play again.

"The body is feeling pretty good. I had a clean-up of my ankle about eight weeks ago and that's all progressing really well," he told hawthornfc.com.au.

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"I have a long road ahead of me with my recovery and rehabilitation, but I'll put the work in and I have full confidence in the medical staff that they can get it right."

Hawthorn will be Scully’s third club and the former No.1 draft pick said he was happy to be back home back in Victoria. He played for Melbourne for two years before becoming a foundation Giants player in 2012.

"It’s obviously very exciting to be back in Melbourne and part of a proud and successful club.

"There was the family pull and no doubt a club like Hawthorn was very attractive to come and play for. They're a powerhouse of the competition and I have watched them with great envy."

He said it was only in the last fortnight the prospect of a trade became a reality.

"I was excited a trade could be done and thankful that both clubs could work out a deal.

"It's a daunting experience to change clubs at age 27, but I’m excited about it as well."