Watch the full interview on CTV in the video player above.
Macaffer and fellow forward Andrew Krakouer suffered ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments within seven days of each other during pre-season practice matches in February but will both return to the field this weekend with the club’s VFL team.
The pair received the final all clear from surgeon Dr Julian Feller last Friday.
“Myself and ‘Krak’ both went and had a chat to our surgeon and he’s the person who has got to give the final tick,” Macaffer explained to collingwoodfc.com.au.
“It’s been pretty exciting this week with the build up and just training and I’m just really looking forward to it.”
The bond forged between the two during their lengthy rehabilitation continues to strengthen in the good times as well as the bad.
“We both went and visited him at the same time last Friday. We both went into his office where he did a few little checks and looked at us and gave us the thumbs up.
“As soon as he told us that we were right to play we both looked at each other and couldn’t help but smile and just gave each other a pat on the back.
“We’ve done pretty much all of it together, one week apart, so to get through it together and to be able to play our first game back together is going to be really special.”
The 24-year-old was touched by the support that he and Krakouer have received from the playing group throughout their recovery.
“When we went out on the ground this morning, ‘Maxy’ called us all in just before the warm up and announced to the group that we’re both playing this week.
“It’s great to have the support from all the teammates who have been a great support throughout the whole process and for them to give us a big cheer and a pat on the back as well was pretty encouraging.”
Macaffer and Krakouer are scheduled to return to the fray at Queen Elizabeth Oval in Bendigo when the club’s VFL team plays the Essendon-affiliated Gold at 2pm on Saturday.
Brent Macaffer shows off the scar on his left knee that required surgery after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in a NAB Cup match against the Western Bulldogs on February 18.
