After nine months on the sidelines, Clay Smith will return to competitive football on Saturday.

The uncompromising midfielder suffered an ACL injury in July 2014 and underwent a second knee reconstruction in as many years, but this weekend will run out with Footscray in round one of the VFL season.

Smith said he was more than ready to return after taking part in full training for the last few weeks.

“(I’m feeling) great, I’ve been nagging the physios and coaches for the last few weeks but this week’s the week where they let me play so it’s exciting.

“(The) body feels awesome, it’s had nine months of recovery and rest so it better be ready.”

Bulldogs assistant coach Steven King, who has been working closely with Smith in his midfield role says Clay’s return was a great result for the whole Club.

“It’s great for Clay, he’s one of those players that is full of energy and attacks everything full on so he’s had a great rehab program, he’s been training 100 miles an hour now for a while… (It’s) great for him to finally get out there.

“He’s done everything right in his rehab… he’s been moving really well and he looks strong.”

Smith has averaged 14 disposals in his 31 AFL matches, and his impressed with his competitiveness and strength, which has assisted the 21-year-old in moving through his rehab sooner than originally expected.

Smith will line-up for Footscray in their round one grand final rematch with the Box Hill Hawks at Victoria University Whitten Oval.

For match information, broadcast and ticketing details, click here.