Danny Wicks looks set to complete one of the most remarkable NRL redemption stories on Friday

RUGBY league’s most remarkable redemption story is just 48 hours from completion. Danny Wicks will make his NRL comeback for the Eels on Friday night.

Parramatta Eels forward Danny Wicks after being selected to play this weekend . Wicks is set to be named to make his return to rugby league after five years out of the game that included a stint in prison for drug trafficking .Picture Gregg Porteous

THE Parramatta Eels are doing a field session at training on Monday afternoon when news breaks that Junior Paulo is facing a potential nine-week suspension.

Coach Brad Arthur turns to Danny Wicks and calls out: “You’re in mate.”

Three words he’s been waiting to hear for a long time.

Three words that ended five years in rugby league oblivion and a ban for drug trafficking that cost him 18 months in jail and more than $1.2 million in contract earnings.

Danny Wicks with his barrister Andrew Bright leave the NSW District Court in Newcastle.

Now rugby league’s most remarkable redemption story is just 48 hours from completion.

Despite being named in jersey No. 18, The Daily Telegraph understands Wicks will definitely be part of the final squad for Friday night’s blockbuster against the Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium.

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And ironically it is on the same ground against the same team from his last NRL appearance for the Newcastle Knights against the Bulldogs in a semi-final in 2009.

Exactly 1644 days ago.

Wicks was released from Glen Innes jail in March 2013 after serving 18 months for pleading guilty to drug trafficking charges. He was also suspended under WADA laws for four years and missed the 2010, 11, 12, 13 and 14 seasons.

“I could not be happier,” Wicks told The Daily Telegraph last night after his selection was announced.

“It’s been a long time but now it’s all about the future,” he said.

“I’m just really grateful Parramatta has given me this opportunity.

“Everyone makes mistakes but it’s the smarter people that learn from them.

“My mistakes cost me 18 months inside, five years of my career and a lot of money.

“What kept me going is my family and the hope I might play rugby league again.”

Now the 29-year-old wants to be regarded as a role model. At least that’s what he’s aiming for.

Two weeks ago as part of the Parramatta Eels community blitz, he attended schools in the area to spread the rugby league message.

It was a long way from the gates of Glen Innes jail.

“I do see myself as someone who has been there and done it,” Wicks said.

“I’ve done the wrong thing but I’ve changed. I’m a much better person for the experience.

Danny Wicks leaves the Newcastle police station in Newcastle after being charged with eight drug-related offences.

“I’d like to think I could share that experience with young people in a schools role or something like that. It would be pretty rewarding all round.”

Right now he is more concerned about holding onto his first grade position at Parramatta as a middle forward.

It’s a huge test against the Bulldogs’ massive pack first up from a long spell.

“My first goal was to make first grade at Parramatta,” he said.

“Now I want to play well consistently for a club that has given me the chance.

“That’s all I’m trying to do at the moment. Consistent footy and doing my job for the team.

“There are not too many people who can say they didn’t make mistakes in their 20s.

“I made a big one but I’ve paid my dues and it’s time to look forward at the rest of my life.”

On Friday night he will run out for the Eels an amazing 20kg lighter than when we last saw him at the Knights. He is now 110kg and looking fitter than ever.

“I’m 29 but I feel 21,” he said.

“I just wish I’d known what I do now when I was 21.

“I think I can be a better player because my body hasn’t been punished like most 29 year olds. I feel like I could easily play for another five years.”

The break from football has at least given him the opportunity to spend more time with his family.

He is engaged to his partner Leona with a little girl Chelsea 3, and nine-month old son Clay who was born three months premature.

Clay was seriously ill in the early days but he’s now doing well.

“I used to hate to be woken up in the mornings when I was asleep,” he said.

“But to have my little one and Chelsea — they just bring a smile to my face every day, every morning.

“My whole family has been rock solid in their support of me. I couldn’t have come back without them.”

Danny Wicks in action for Wentworthville after 18 months in jail. pic Mark Evans

Looking forward now, he is reluctant to talk about the 18 long months of prison life.

He says one of his worst memories was the booming 6am siren to start each day.

Although the one at ANZ Stadium at full time on Friday night will be music to his ears.

It will close another chapter in a wonderful story of redemption.