HAWTHORN star Jarryd Roughead has returned for day one of pre-season training and teammate Jack Gunston is hopeful he’ll be lining up in Round 1.

Roughead hit the track at Waverley Park this morning as the senior players returned for training, joining the first-to-fourth-year players who have been back for a fortnight.

The premiership forward didn’t play a game this year and has been receiving immunotherapy treatment for a melanoma recurrence discovered in May.

media_camera Jarryd Roughead in action at training on Monday. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

In a positive sign for the star forward in his health battle and a major boost for the Hawks, Roughead took part in drills and appeared to be in good spirits.

Gunston revealed the 29-year-old has also been training hard over the off-season and hopes he will be running out onto the MCG for the Round 1 clash against Essendon.

“I know he’s been training and jogging,” Gunston said.

“Like everyone else I’m hopeful he’ll be there Round 1 but his health is more important than anything else.”

media_camera Jarryd Roughead fight for the footy at ground level. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

While Gunston was unable to give an update on Roughead’s health, he said the fact his premiership teammate was out on the track training was as good a sign as any that the March 25 fixture was a realistic goal.

“That’s my hope. I miss playing with the big fella,” Gunston said.

“I don’t know where he’s at or what situation he’s in at the moment but it’s good to see him out there training and kicking.

media_camera Jarryd Roughead works with new forward partner Ty Vickery. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

“If you look at probably 10 months ago you probably wouldn’t think he’d be out here training and kicking. He’s done a fair bit of work over the break as well.

“It’s great to see he’s got a smile on his face. He’s always upbeat and just one of those guys you always want around the team because he’s a good morale booster and a really good bloke.

“I’m sure there’s a bit more water to go under the bridge but I’m hopeful.”

media_camera Jarryd Roughead trains at Waverley Park. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

media_camera A smiling Jarryd Roughead in action. Picture: Wayne Ludbey