Loose forward Liam Squire still has ambitions to play for the All Blacks again, but must first impress with the Highlanders in Super Rugby Aotearoa.
Squire has been named in Tony Brown's 39-man squad for the 2021 campaign, after a rough two years dealing with injuries and mental battles that saw him withdraw from the All Blacks' World Cup squad.
The 29-year-old last played for the Highlanders in 2019, when his campaign was overshadowed by hip and knee niggles.
He then departed for Japan, but only played three games for the Osaka-based Red Hurricanes with further injuries and the COVID-19 pandemic hampering his recovery.
In September, Squire parted ways with the Hurricanes to focus on his health and he can't wait to get back on the field.
"I haven't played since February, so i'm itching to get back out there," he says. "It was taken out of my hands with injuries and the delay with surgery, due to COVID, but I'm also excited to be back in New Zealand.
"I love playing for this team. I call Dunedin home, so coming here was an easy choice."
Squire played 24 tests for the All Blacks between 2016-19, but loose forward depth has since increased massively, making it difficult to crack the team.
Captain Sam Cane, Ardie Savea, Dalton Papalii, Akria Ioane, Hoskins Sotutu, Cullen Grace and Shannon Frizell all turned out for the All Blacks this year, with the likes of Du’Plessis Kirifi, Lachlan Boshier and Luke Jacobson waiting in the wings.
While Squire still has sights on the All Blacks, his first goal is to help the Highlanders compete in Super Rugby Aotearoa.
"For me, it is one step at a time," says Squire. "I want to come back to the Highlanders and enjoy my footy.
"If I'm having fun, the rest of it takes care of itself.
"I've learnt not to worry about other people's opinions, people who hide behind a keyboard.
"It's just family, friends and teammates' words that I take in, so it's about blocking the outside noise."
The Highlanders side for next year includes six new caps and two players - Squire and Josh Hohneck - who have come back to the franchise after stints away.
Adding more competition to the depth at loose forwards for the Highlander including the singing of Bryn Evans while James Lentjies is due to return after fracturing his ankle last season.
