Hawthorn recruit Tom Scully is set to pull on a Hawthorn jumper for the first time against the Western Bulldogs this Sunday.

It will be 12 months to the date since Scully injured his ankle whilst playing for GWS at the MCG.

The 27-year-old said he can’t wait to run onto the MCG in his debut as a Hawk.

“I’ve certainly been waiting for this moment,” Scully said.

“It’s a very exciting moment for me.”

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Scully admits it will be a relief to put the endless speculation surrounding his return to bed, with the conjecture dominating the headlines since his crossing to Hawthorn in October.

“There’s been a lot of commentary around when I would return and when I would play again.

“But, for me, I haven’t really been focussed on that, I’ve had a pretty clear plan from the outset outlined by the guys here at Hawthorn.

“I’ve had great confidence that I would get back and this week is another step forward.”

But Scully suggested the Hawthorn faithful should be cautious in their expectations of the former Giant given his extended lay-off from the game.

“I’ve had a really good last six weeks in terms of my preparation in training

“But I have missed 12 months of football, so there’s no doubt I’m probably not going to be at my very best.

“But I’ll certainly bring my best effort and play my role – I’ll be striving to do that as best I can.”