Speaking exclusively to FTV, Des Headland interviews Chris Mayne in the Round 19 edition of ‘Man’s Up’ about his brilliant return to AFL ranks after a frustrating time on the sidelines battling injury.

Three first-half goals from Mayne against the Western Bulldog's was a reminder for all supporters of his abilities in his outstanding debut season, where he impressed in his 17 games.

After finally playing his 18th match on Saturday due to stress fractures in his shin, Mayne said it was a frustrating journey on the sidelines.

“Had a stress fractures in the pre-season and I have worked hard to come back during the year and have been out for awhile now but finally I had my chance on the weekend to return,” said Mayne.

“It’s tough, you are working as hard as you can and all you do is watch the boys train and then come the weekend you just keep training and you get no reward for all the hard work you do.

“I’ve had a rough time but now it’s all turned around now and I am back out there again.”

Mayne had played the previous three matches in the WAFL reserves for Perth and Peel but said he'd had his eye on regaining his spot in the Fremantle line-up for some time.

“It was just good to have a run with the boys as I’ve just been looking forward to it so much.

“I was extremely nervous for my first game after being out of the game for so long and didn’t really know what to expect.

“I spoke to a few senior guys about what to focus on and they said it was all about the ‘one-percenters’ and that’s what I did focus on.”

Mayne said kicking three first-half majors was just the boost he needed upon his return.

“My first miss, after that I had to put it behind me and things fell into my lap.”

“I worked hard for the first half but in the second half I started to fade-out as I am still building up my match fitness and just tried to get the most out of my first game.”

To catch the full interview exclusively on FTV CLICK HERE