AT THE start of this year, Matt Thomas was aiming to play around 16 senior games in 2007.

"I played eight last year, so I wanted to double that this season," he told portadelaidefc.com.au.

But just as Thomas’s pre-season was going to plan, complications from an appendectomy forced him to have a second operation, and he spent a month in hospital. He lost 15 kilograms in weight - that has since been put back on - and lost plenty of fitness.

"I'm still catching up on the match fitness, really, and it'll take a couple more weeks," he said. "I'm working closely with the weights and fitness guys at the club, trying to do a bit extra each week to get back. It's also about the recovery – ice baths, that sort of thing."

After getting back into the senior team for the win over Melbourne, Thomas plans to play plenty more games this year – although he's readjusted his goals since the hospital stint.

"I want to get around the 10-game mark this year, but I'll take it as it comes. It's been a long couple of months," he said.

Thomas, 20, played in the backline against the Demons. He was happy with his contribution, although a corked thigh limited his impact in the second half.

"I am a pretty versatile player, but I probably do best on a half-back, or a wing," he said.

"Today, with Michael Wilson out, that was my role. But last week, when Sal (wingman Steven Salopek) got injured, I was looking to replace him in the team."

Thomas was recruited from Victoria in the 2006 pre-season draft. His family, girlfriend, and a few junior teammates were on hand to witness his return to the AFL.

"They were rapt. I haven't played on the MCG since I was a junior, so it was good to be out there," he said.

The views in this story are those of the author and not necessarily those of the club.