FREMANTLE star Nat Fyfe is hopeful of participating in full contact training after the Christmas break following a successful return to the running track on Tuesday.
Fyfe injured his right shoulder diving for a mark when playing for Australia in an International Rules practice match last month.
The 2014 AFL Players' Association MVP had minor surgery on the injured AC joint two weeks ago, but was able to complete his first running session on Tuesday.
"I've been in the gym the past week doing some cross-training work and weights work and starting to strengthen my shoulder," he said.
"Today I was able to get out and have a run around and from here I'll progress towards Christmas and hopefully join back in with the main group after Christmas.
"It's feeling really good. The surgery went really well, no complications, and at this stage everything is on track for a return on January 5."
Not content with being one of the competition's best midfielders, Fyfe is aiming to improve his ability to play up forward during the pre-season.
The 23-year-old booted 24 goals in 20 games last season and is happy to play closer to goal next year if he is required to.
"I think the next progression for me is to be a dominant forward player as well as a midfield player," he told 6PR on Monday night.
"You look at the likes of Patrick Dangerfield and how dominant he is when he goes forward.
"I sneak forward at times, but that's certainly something I'm going to work on during this pre-season, if need be to play as a forward."
Nat Fyfe taking a breather during Fremantle's gym session on Tuesday. Picture: AFL Media
Fremantle skipper Matthew Pavlich in the gym. Picture: Michael Willson
Defender Michael Johnson works up a sweat on the bikes. Picture: Michael Willson
