Heath Hocking is eyeing a June return as he makes his recovery from twin groin surgeries.

The midfielder has endured a frustrating time on the sidelines but can see a comeback to the playing field is getting closer.

“I’ve probably hit a spot where I’m very positive moving forward.  It’s probably maybe eight weeks away,” Hocking told SEN this morning. 

“It’s sort of mid-June.  I just haven’t had much luck with my body and the rehab. 

“It’s exciting because I’ve probably got a date set where I’ll return.” 

Hocking has been on restricted duties since undergoing the surgeries during the off-season.

He was one of Essendon’s most durable last year playing 22 games and picking up the club’s best ‘team’ player award. 

But this season he’s been confined to the grandstand, or the kitchen.

Hocking has spent time learning the trade under renowned chef Adrian Richardson. 

“Coming late into my career, I’ve got to start thinking about what is life after football,” Hocking said. 

“I’ve tried being a ‘sparky’ and I enjoyed that, and now I’m trying the food side of things.”

The Bombers have shown some positive signs early in the season and will be looking to rebound this week against St Kilda.

Hocking can sense there is plenty of optimism amongst the playing group for what lies ahead.

“Training has been fantastic and a sense of that is everyone is upbeat.  You can’t not be at this time of the year,” he said.