Lachlan Cuell ready for return after almost two years out

Cuell hasn't played a first grade game in almost two years after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament early in the 2019 season.

He sat out last year and has worked his way into the side to tackle Young at Laurie Daley Oval on Sunday.

Cuell, who has played over 100 first grade games for the club, admitted there had been plenty of setbacks before finally making it back.

"It's been a bit of a journey but it is good to be back as it was certainly a goal to be back at level and to be able to contribute," Cuell said.

"Hopefully I can do that."

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Cuell attempted to play on without surgery initially but believes taking a more conservative approach this time around has paid off.

Especially after COVID elongated the process.

"I ended up taking the year off as I had the surgery in Melbourne but couldn't get back down there to see my surgeon for the final go ahead as the border was shut," he said.

"I had all intentions of playing a couple of games at the back end of last year but once that happened it made my decision for me.

"I feel the knee itself is a hell of a lot better for the extra time. From where it was 12 months ago to now is much improved."

Cuell missed a couple of reserve grade games to start the season with a hamstring issue however coach Simon Woolford has been impressed enough with his form to bring him into the centre to take on Young.

"Lachy has had his issues with injury but he's ready for a game with us," Woolford said.

"He's a big body, has been around for a little while and played quite a few games, and has had the hammy and calf issues from his knee reco but seems to have come out the other end and played some good footy in ressies.

"From an attack point of view we need to be better so hopefully he can add something there for us."

The Cherrypickers scored a 14-8 win when the two teams met at Alfred Oval to start the season.

Kangaroos have mixed their form since then, coming off a 20-12 loss to Gundagai before the bye. Young took a 18-12 win over the Tigers last week.

An intercept try proved to be a big turning point in their last clash and while pleased with Kangaroos' defence, Woolford is looking for more with the ball on Sunday.

"Our attack is a work in progress and it's taken us a little longer than what I would have liked," he said.

"I'm hoping sometime in the near future we click and we're on our way.

"It would be nice for it to happen this Sunday."