PORT ADELAIDE key forward Charlie Dixon can’t wait to wear the prison bar guernsey when he makes his return to football in the SANFL this weekend.

Dixon hasn’t played since Round 21, 2018 and he says it has been a really challenging period off the field for him.

“It’s been nine months, something I’ve struggled through,” Dixon told Triple M’s Jars & Louie.

“I’m finally getting my chance to get out there and experience a bit of football again, I’m pretty excited.

“I am actually really excited to don the jumper and do what I can for the Mags.”

The key forward isn’t sure when he will get the chance to return to Port Adelaide’s senior side, but is hoping to be back in the AFL shortly.

“I reckon if I can get through this one, I can get through a (AFL) game,” he said.

“I play football the same way, regardless of what league I’m in.

“I want to push for that, but it is up to the medical staff if they want to let me off the leash or not.”

The 28-year-old has been impressed with Dougal Howard’s shift into the forward line when given the opportunity this year, and Dixon says he is keen to link up in attack when he returns to the Power.

“Doug was recruited as a forward,” he said.

“I like him as a forward because he has phenomenal timing of the footy, kicks goals, he’s fast, and hard to match up on.

“We’ve got some depth coming back, and I would love to have him next to me in the forward line.

“As well as Paddy (Ryder), Scotty (Lycett), Robbie (Gray) and (Connor) Rozee.

“When you throw those names around, it’s a very dangerous forward line.”

Dixon will be joined by co-captain Ollie Wines in the SANFL at Alberton Oval, who will also return from injury.

The first bounce is at 2.10pm on Saturday afternoon, with all Power games access members gaining free access to the clash.

Entry is free for children under the age of 18, with the first 200 kids through the gates receiving a free Macca's football.