Sydney Swans young gun Gary Rohan rates himself a 50-50 chance to play in this weekend's do-or-die final against Western Bulldogs.
The former Cobden footballer has struggled to break into the club's top side since injuring his ankle three months ago.
His shot at a finals debut will be determined at the Swans' training session tonight.
"I have to train as hard as I can," he said.
"I have to show the coaches that I'm trying hard to be in the side."
Rohan held his place for seven rounds after making his AFL debut against Geelong in May.
However, the 19-year-old's troublesome right ankle was aggravated in the round 13 encounter against Collingwood.
All of a sudden, Rohan's major battles were being fought off the field.
He spent seven difficult weeks rehabilitating the sore spot and playing in the club's seconds.
While he was desperately trying to recover, the Swans were finding late form- making the competition for team selection fierce.
"It was pretty hard," he said.
"It was tough thinking I might not play again when I just wanted to be out there playing.
"There were a lot of ups and downs."
Rohan played his most recent matches in the closing two rounds of the home-and-away fixture, against Brisbane Lions and the Bulldogs.
He was named emergency for last weekend's elimination clash against Carlton.
However, the signet has not ruled out his chances for a finals debut.
"I'm still in the mix," he said.
"I've learnt a heap (since my debut).
"I'm a lot more confident on the field and have more composure with the ball."
The teenager has not returned to the south-west since moving to Sydney.
Despite early hesitations, Rohan said he had settled into the metropolitan lifestyle.
"It was hard for the first two months," he said.
"I was homesick all of the time but I'm loving it now.
"I'm used to the environment and the weather is a lot better."
Rohan is yet to settle into a specific position on the field.
He has shared his time between the forward and back lines and has booted seven goals for the year.
"They're still trying me everywhere," he said
"But I don't mind.
"It's pretty good to be a utility player."
The Bulldogs are set to bounce back from a mediocre performance against the Magpies on the weekend.
Veteran Brad Johnson's approaching retirement should also give the western bunch motivation in the second semi-final.
But Rohan said the imminent exit of Sydney coach Paul Roos and captain Brett Kirk would provide equal incentive.
"We will be doing the same for Kirky and Roosy," he said.
"I reckon it will be a good game.
"You never know what can happen in finals."
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