He’s back, five days ahead of schedule.

Gold Coast skipper and champion midfielder Gary Ablett made a surprising return to pre-season training on Wednesday morning, joining the club’s first to fourth-year players on the Metricon Stadium training field.

Albeit restricted to light duties, Ablett completed a series of shuttle runs and target practice, training without the support of a sling protecting his surgically-repaired shoulder.

He was not expected back to the club until November 17, when the full senior list returns for pre-season training.

General Manager of Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft, said Ablett’s early return had been a real lift for the young playing group.

“For him to want to come back and join in and be around his teammates is a real positive,” Ashcroft told The Gold Coast Bulletin.

New forwards coach, Ashley Prescott, echoed Ashcroft’s sentiments.

“It’s great to have Gary and it’s amazing, the boys love to see him. He looks like he’s progressing really well from his injury too.”