Former All Blacks loose forward Steven Luatua is ready for a bounce back year with the Blues.
Luatua, 24, returns to Super Rugby after a 2015 season that was derailed by a shoulder injury that required surgery.
While he's not yet back to full fitness, Luatua is ready for the campaign to kick off against the Highlanders on February 26.
"I wouldn't say it's back to 100 [percent] yet, I think it's one of these things that are always going to be kind of niggly," said Luatua.
"So far the signs are I'm heading in the right direction I think.
"This preseason compared to other preseasons is pretty much all the same to me, it's just a dark place you know. You get into a dark place and keep running and running."
Tipped for big things when he made his debut in 2013, injuries have slowed Luatua's charge (Getty Images)
Luatua, who has pulled on the All Blacks jersey 14 times, will find himself with some stiff loose forward competition in this year's Blues side, with captain Jerome Kaino expected to have one of the three spots locked up.
Five-time All Black Tanerau Latimer will make his Super Rugby return following a stint in Japan, while Jack Ram returns to fitness after a year that was dogged by injury.
Upcoming loosie Blake Gibson got a taste of Super Rugby last season when he drafted in from the wider training squad, appearing in four matches for the Blues and playing a vital role in the Under 20 All Blacks World Championship winning side. Gibson is also returning from a serious injury after hurting his knee for Auckland in the ITM Cup.
Akira Ioane on the burst at the Sydney Sevens (Getty Images)
Number 8 Akira Ioane has shone with the New Zealand Sevens team in weeks after back-to-back wins at the Wellington and Sydney Sevens, performances that didn't go unnoticed by Luatua.
"I think he's proven on the Sevens paddock that his acceleration is just outstanding, his acceleration through contact and past the point of contact.
"I think he's one of the best in the world right now, full credit to AK."
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