Australia's stalwart prop Petero Civoniceva is aiming to put his best foot forward against England on Saturday after making a successful comeback from an injury to his big toe.

The 6ft 4in, 17st 4lb Penrith Panthers forward cannot hide his embarrassment at being sidelined for more than three months with a ruptured toe ligament.

"I was scared of being kicked out of the front rower's union with such a small injury," he said.

"I never realised how important the big toe was and the function it has. It was very frustrating that something so small could put me out for so long."

Civoniceva suffered the injury playing for Queensland in the second State of Origin match in June and was forced to undergo surgery.

It ruled him out for the rest of the NRL season and made him doubtful for Australia's Gillette Four Nations campaign.

However, the former Brisbane Broncos front rower was determined to make the tour and duly won his 37th cap in the Kangaroos' 20-20 draw against New Zealand last Saturday.

"It was quite a lengthy lay-off and rehabilitation process but, once I got the clearance from our medical staff, I was always going to try and put my hand up to be here," he said.

"Being 33, it's hard to get the body going again but I worked really hard. I was always really hopeful of making this tour and I'm very grateful for the opportunity to come over here again.

"As a kid playing for Australia was something I always aspired to do. I have been very fortunate to come here and represent my country quite a few times.

"I still have that excitement of a young man and look forward to the challenges."

Civoniceva has not ruled out the possibility of touring again in 2011 and admits he would love to play in Super League before he finally hangs up his boots.

"I always keep my options open," he said. "While I'm playing NRL I'll always put my hand up for selection in representative sides.

"I've got one more year at the Panthers but I would love the opportunity to get a chance here.

"We'll wait and see. I've got a young family and it's a big move bringing four little ones over but I know my wife would love to come here and I've always loved playing in front of English crowds.

"I think it would be a great experience if I could get opportunity."

More immediately, Civoniceva is hoping his side can improve on their opening Four Nations performance for their must-win match against England at Wigan's DW Stadium on Saturday.

"We've got a tremendous amount of improvement in us," he said. "We'll all benefit from the hit-out against the Kiwis.

"On Saturday we've got to play a lot smarter. We were probably guilty of taking some wrong options but I suppose that was to be expected from our first hit-out."