It was only a few years ago when Sam Fisher’s career lingered at the crossroads. With his hamstrings repeatedly failing him, the end loomed on the horizon.

Now, he is helping young St Kilda recruit Nathan Freeman deal with a similar issue; a player whose career has been plagued by hamstring trouble.

Since being drafted inside the top-ten of the 2013 National Draft, Freeman has been hampered by persistent issues with his hamstring, initially at Collingwood before he crossed to the Saints at the end of last season.

The explosive midfielder made a comeback with Sandringham’s development side last weekend, but will be kept on a tight leash this year as the Saints hope to eradicate the issue once and for all.

“He’s had some hammy issues like myself, they were very similar actually. So I’ve had a bit to do with Nathan in that sense,” Fisher told Melbourne radio station RSN on Wednesday.

“I’ve told him to stay positive, and told him I got over it. I’ve tried to instil a bit of belief into him like that.

“Things are only heading in the right track now. He played in the Sandy’s twos sides on the weekend on restricted minutes, but got through well. Hopefully we see him in the Sandy ones side soon and then progressing from there.”

Fisher praised Freeman’s attitude during a tumultuous time, explaining how the constant worry of whether or not your body will break down again can weigh you down.

“He’s been great. He’s been first class in his attitude and the way that he’s dug in,” Fisher said.

“I can totally understand his headspace and how frustrating it is. When you have hammys, it can play on your mind so much when you’re doing your rehab.

“I know when you’ve done a couple of them you’re just so worried and it really takes some time and sessions to get over things mentally.”