The lean and keen Liam Messam has channeled his Olympic sevens disappointment into a late run for the Super Rugby title with the Chiefs.
"I'm glad to be back," said Messam. "I set my goal to make that team at Rio, but I've been watching what the team has done and I'm grateful that the team and tich have given me the opportunity to put this jersey on again."
Messam revealed today that he found out his Rio dream was over two weeks ago.
Since then he has been playing club rugby and bulking up for Super duty, even as a back if need be.
"He's put his hand up for midfield, but we're okay there," quipped coach Dave Rennie.
Jokes aside, Messam's return to the Chiefs is hard to understate.
"It's massive," said Rennie. "He's the highest capped Chiefs player, he's captained the side to a couple of titles. He's got a lot of mana within this group."
Rio still remains a chance with the 32-year-old named as a non-travelling reserve.
"I just think it's given me a new lease of life, and I still have to stay fit if that call ever happens," notes Messam.
"It's just given me a little bit more energy."
Rennie hinted to reporters today that he'll follow the Crusaders lead and rest either skipper Sam Cane or Brodie Retallick when the side to play the Reds on Friday night is named tomorrow.
But Messam is set for his 145th cap - and will be named in the 23-man squad.
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