He’s six senior games into his return from a knee reconstruction –his third significant injury in the past five seasons.

A broken neck ruined his one season at Port Fairy in 2010, while a broken leg in the pre-season delayed the start of his 2014 campaign.

He returned to play two games before hurting his knee.

Sheldon, 30, believes his fitness is slowly adjusting to the demands of Hampden league competition after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

He is eager to play a role in the Eagles’ finals campaign, which starts against cross-town rival Warrnambool at Gardens Oval on Saturday.

“I don’t think I am at 100 per cent yet,” Sheldon said of his fitness.

“It’s taken a fair bit to get back in after a fair stint on the sidelines.

“I am getting close to where I want to be.”

Sheldon said his knee reconstruction was physically and mentally draining.

“You lose a lot of muscle in your quad and hamstring,” he said.

“It puts pressure on your calf as well.

“I had to do a lot of rehab to get back running.

“Two months after the reco I started jogging and it was probably another four to six months before I was back to full running. Then you have to try and get your strength and conditioning back.”

Sheldon returned via the reserves in June, stringing four matches together before earning a senior recall against South Warrnambool in round 13.

He filled a defensive role but has moved up the ground in recent weeks – something he’s relished.

North Warrnambool Eagles enter the qualifying final on a wave of momentum, having dismantled Warrnambool in their round 18 battle.

“There is a real buzz around the club,” Sheldon said.

“It was a really fantastic win. 

“It showed what a bit of belief can do.”