Wolfman ready to move on after betting ban

David Williams says he has come back from bigger adversities than his betting ban and is determined to force his way back into the Manly NRL side.

Former Test and NSW Origin winger Williams is set to make his playing return in the Sea Eagles’ pre-season trial against Cronulla on Saturday after being banned for the final eight weeks of the 2014 season.

The 28-year-old “Wolfman” says it never crossed his mind to give the game away after he was the highest profile casualty of an NRL betting probe into players and officials.

He was found to have bet on NRL matches, including several in which he was involved.

Williams has previously come back from season-ending injuries, including a broken neck in 2011.

“I’ve broken my neck before and I came back from that so I don’t think that ever crossed my mind (to quit the game),” he said.

“I trained hard during my time off during the season last year and I trained hard this pre-season.

“I’m just looking forward to getting back on the park.”

He said he had served his time and learnt from his errors and was ready to let his football do the talking.

But he faces a huge task to work his way back into the Manly backline after being overtaken in the pecking order.

Last year he played just seven first grade games and was dropped to NSW Cup before receiving his betting ban.

Jorge Taufua, Pita Hiku and Clint Gutherson sit in front of him while highly-rated youngster Tom Trbojevic made a good impression at the Auckland Nines.

“Spending time out for that reason wasn’t the best way to go through a season,” Williams said.

“Especially when I was trying to get back to playing good football.

“But that was last year and really looking forward to playing out here this weekend and kicking off a good season.”