Gold Coast recruit William Zillman knows there is plenty of hype about his NRL comeback but the former Canberra fullback is willing to bide his time and fight for a spot in the Titans backline.

Zillman made an immediate impact at the Raiders in 2007, scoring nine tries in 19 games and regularly breaking the line, but his standout season was ruined by a knee injury late in the year.

Just three games into the 2008 season he suffered a recurrence of the anterior cruciate ligament tear and a second knee reconstruction ruled him out for the year.

But the cruel blow allowed Zillman to relocate to the Gold Coast in July last year and now he can enter the 2009 season both settled into his new surrounds and confident his rehabilitation has been a success.

"I'm really excited about the year ahead, especially after missing out on most of last year," said Zillman.

"I'm just concentrating on getting the knee right and I'm really excited about starting to play.

"I'm pretty much good to go now and back to full fitness."

Slated as a future Queensland State of Origin player, Zillman has impressed his new teammates on the Gold Coast who have rated him the total package due to his size and speed.

But as the 22-year-old prepares for his comeback in an NRL trial next weekend against Brisbane at Wynnum, Zillman knows he is going to have a battle on his hands to earn a place in the Gold Coast backline.

The Titans boast some of the best young, and old, talent in the outside backs.

Preston Campbell's brilliant end to 2008 has given the former Dally M medal winner a mortgage on the fullback jersey, while ex-Queensland Origin winger Chris Walker is flying in his comeback from a second Achilles tendon tear.

Brett Delaney and Luke O'Dwyer were solid in the centres last year, while young guns Jordan Atkins, Ben Jeffery, Esi Tonga and Shannon Walker are also vying for backline roles.

Zillman knows he may have to wait for his chance for a spot in first grade at the Titans.

"It all depends on injuries and how I go in the trials," he said.

"I just have to concentrate on playing some consistent football and not be too concerned about what position I'm playing.

"We're very strong in the outside backs with some really good young talent coming up so it is exciting for the club and gives me a bit of competition but that is always healthy in the team."

Zillman will return to the Gold Coast on Saturday after completing a three-day trek around the NSW country towns of Cobar, Nyngan and Bourke as part of the NRL's community carnival.

The community carnival featured 107 NRL players visiting regional towns around Australia promoting healthy living.

Zillman said his trip had been an eye-opener.

"I couldn't believe how dry it was out here," he said.

"They do it pretty tough but it's great that they still love their footy and get behind the local clubs."

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