The sight of Ashley Taylor smiling and barking orders at Gold Coast training on Monday has been welcomed by his NRL teammates.
Taylor took part in his first field session with the Titans since ending a period of personal leave last week.
The 24-year-old halfback was granted a break from the game by the club early in June, after struggling with the spotlight following an underwhelming start to his 2019 season.
While the leave only lasted a fortnight, Bryce Cartwright is among those who has immediately noticed a change in Taylor’s disposition since his return to the club.
“Definitely a lot happier than before when he was here,” Cartwright told AAP.
“He’s got a clear mind now and he’s looking really sharp in training.
“It’s probably the happiest I’ve seen him too.”
No stranger to dealing with the pressure of being under extreme criticism after a troubled first season at the Titans in 2018, Cartwright probably understood more than most Taylor’s need to take some time away.
It’s unclear if Taylor will come straight back into the Titans’ line-up for Friday’s home clash with Manly or if coach Garth Brennan will stick with Ryley Jacks, after the ex-Melbourne player filled the void against Brisbane and the Warriors.
Winger Anthony Don said he had no doubt Taylor would be ready if he’s picked to take on the Sea Eagles.
“If he gets picked and is the man that Garth thinks is right for the spot he’ll definitely be good enough to come in,” Don said.
“He’s a skilful player and everyone knows how good he is, so there’ll be no doubt that he could walk straight back in if that’s what the coaches want to do.”