He only joined one week before the NAB Challenge, but Tullamarine has quickly become home for Nathan Grima.

The ex-Kangaroo has enjoyed his brief time at the Bombers, living up to his reputation as one of the most popular men in football. 

This weekend marks a personal milestone for him as he prepares to play his first game since retiring in July 2015.

“I’ve been looking forward to getting back and playing since I signed up with the Footy Club,” said Grima

“I’ve had to wait a little while and put some games together, so hopefully I can come in now and play a role and do enough to show that it was warranted to give me an opportunity again.

“I love getting on the road and getting around the boys

“Even though I’ve been here for such a short period of time, it feels like I’ve been here much longer.”

The Coaches have made Grima prove himself before returning. 

With only a short pre-season behind him, the defender has spent the opening rounds of the year playing with Essendon VFL.

It didn’t take long for him to show that he was still up to the task, with both his actions and leadership integral in the team formation.

Grima is looking to repay the faith that the Coaches have put in him this week, and perform at a level that will see him potentially cement his position in the team.

“Hopefully it’s not a one week wonder and I can come in and string some games together and enjoy it,” said Grima

“It’s a tough game to come in for one week and pick up that speed after a couple of years out.

“If I can just do my best, play a role and compete, that’s all I can ask at the minute.”

Grima is one of five changes for this week’s game against the Swans, with Mark Baguley, Shaun McKernan, Craig Bird and Mason Redman joining the team. 

The Swans have been in excellent so far this season, sitting in third position on the ladder with five wins and one loss.

It will be a tough ask for the Bombers, but Grima is expecting plenty of effort tomorrow afternoon.

“It’s tougher to win on the road and Sydney are obviously an unbelievable team with a great forward line,” said Grima

“You’ve just got to take it as it comes and give a good account of ourselves.

“You go into every game expecting to try and give yourself a chance of winning.

“The odds are obviously stacked against us, but we want to put in a good showing and see where that takes us.”