North defender Scott Thompson says he’s looking forward to making his return to competitive action in the coming weeks.

The All-Australian has been sidelined after a minor procedure to repair his adductor and is keen to get game-time under his belt before the season kicks off in late March.

“I’ve really ramped us the last couple of weeks,” Thompson told Channel 10 on Monday.

“I don’t miss games, and I don’t normally get injured, so it’s a bit different for me.

“I’ve been able to keep my running up a fair bit, now it’s more about getting game practice in and I’ll be fine.”

With the JLT Community Series looming large, Thompson is confident he’ll play a part.

“I’m sure the physios and docs are not really liking me at the moment, because I just want to get out there and play.”

Thompson has been keeping a close eye on his teammates, and expects a strong showing from North's defenders in 2017.

“Robbie Tarrant had an awesome year last year, Luke McDonald is really stepping up this pre-season,” the 30-year-old said.

A new recruit in the back half, Marley Williams, has also impressed.

“I was watching him pretty closely in the practice match on Saturday and he was quick and certainly had some good skills,” Thompson added. 

While the number 16's immediate focus has been on making a return to full training, a round one clash against a familiar opponent awaits.

316-gamer Drew Petrie is set to line up for his new team the Eagles, and should he play forward, Thompson may yet take on the big man.

“I haven’t really thought that far ahead, but I heard he’s going pretty well at training, he’s nice and fit, so I’m sure he’s looking forward to playing us as well.

“We’ve obviously played on each other at training a heap, we’ve had our little niggles and fights, so it would be good to play on him.”