O’Driscoll has revealed his journey back to full fitness following knee surgery in March

Nathan O’Driscoll has revealed a blood clot in his right knee, which saw him miss the majority of the 2024 season, also resulted in the young winger losing around 10 kilograms.

O’Driscoll injured his knee during match simulation against West Coast in March, ultimately not playing a senior AFL game until Round 23 against the Giants in August.

Speaking to the media on Monday morning, O’Driscoll said rebuilding his strength was a significant hurdle to overcome.

“I think I lost 10 kilos or something — I went down under 80 kilos,” O’Driscoll revealed.

‘The wing spot is definitely open’ | Nathan O’Driscoll

Driz spoke to the media ahead of the Christmas break

“It was pretty much like getting drafted again and rebuilding my body.

“It was tough. I did the whole pre-season and was flying, feeling good, and I remember playing pretty well in that practice game against West Coast where I actually did the injury.

“It was pretty deflating, but it all worked out in the end. I played a couple of AFL games, and hopefully I can put my best foot forward and build from that heading into next year.”

O’Driscoll said he gained confidence from playing different roles at the backend of 2024, adding new elements to his game during the GWS and Port Adelaide matches.

It’s pretty tough (to secure a spot), but I think the wing spot is definitely open,” O’Driscoll said.

“I think I now have the ability to play inside as well. In the Port Adelaide game, I was actually tagging different players, which added another string to my bow.

“If I’m thrown in there (as a run-with player), I know I can play that role. I’ve definitely built confidence from those experiences.”

Reflecting on his long stint on the sidelines and time in the rehab group, O’Driscoll said ruckman Sean Darcy was a positive driving force in his recovery.

“He was a big driver for me when I was in there (rehab group),” O’Driscoll said.

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Nathan O’Driscoll put together a huge performance in the 2024 WAFL Grand Final against East Perth

“We both had similar injuries — we both hurt our knees.

“He was always pushing me to get in there and do extra cross-training and whatnot. It’s pretty good to see a leader like that doing what he’s doing.”

Fremantle’s men’s squad will have their final main training session on Wednesday 18 December, before splitting for the Christmas break.