AHMED Saad believes he is fitter than he was when he last played for the Saints and is aiming to make up for lost time in 2015.

The clever half-forward, who booted 45 goals in 29 games for St Kilda in 2012 and 2013, was selected with pick 19 in Wednesday morning’s Rookie Draft, the club’s second selection.

“I’m absolutely rapt that the Saints showed faith and picked me up again. I can’t wait to get stuck back into it,” Saad said.

“I’ve come back in better shape and my results have proven that. I have a personal trainer and I’m doing everything I can.

“I am going to continue to train with him until I can start training with the club.”

ARTICLE: Rookie Draft wrap

Although the 25-year-old was able to come into Linen House Centre on Wednesday, he is officially not allowed to begin training with St Kilda until January.
Saad got married and became a stockbroker in his time on the sidelines, and while he found the ban frustrating, he refused to let the enforced layoff weigh him down emotionally.

“I had a lot of challenges in front of me with the tribunals and legal proceedings,” he said.

“I tried to stay positive as much as I could and control what I could control. I tried to tick all of the boxes and here I am.

“The rules are the rules. What I did was wrong and it is what it is. I can’t control that. That’s not my place to comment on that. I’m glad I’m back – that’s the main thing.”
ARTICLE: Saad selecdted with pick 19

Most key non-playing positions at the Saints have changed since Saad last played for the club.

Aside from the off-field regeneration that has taken place since 2013, St Kilda has also brought in talented young players including Jack Billings, Luke Dunstan, Tim Membrey, Paddy McCartin. Jack Lonie and Hugh Goddard.

As a small forward, he won’t be in direct competition with all of the aforementioned teammates, but still faces a stiff challenge to earn a senior spot for the Saints clash with GWS in round one, especially as a rookie-listed player.

Not to be perturbed, competition for places serves as a motivating factor for Saad.
listen to ‘Ahmed Saad & Tony Elshaug’ on audioBoom
“I’ve missed a year of footy and I don’t want to miss anymore. The aim is to play round one.

“It’s been a long 16 months and I can’t wait to get back into it.”

VIDEO: Ahmed Saad highlights

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