Emma Zielke has assured Brisbane Lions fans that she is well and truly on the mend. Earlier this month she was the victim of friendly fire playing for the Allies against Victoria in AFLW’s State of Origin.

A teammate’s knee rammed into her chest, breaking three ribs and puncturing a lung.

Zielke says the pain has been excruciating and the injury has been awkward and uncomfortable.

“It wasn’t very much fun at the time, I was in a lot of pain. But yeah, I’m on the mend now and feeling much more comfortable,” Zielke said.

Unable to fly, she took the long journey home from Melbourne to Brisbane via train.

After spending time with her family in Bundaberg, the Lions AFLW Captain is feeling refreshed.

Zielke was overwhelmed with the support she has received, including everyone from fans to the Lions men’s team.

“I felt really loved after that and slowly back on the mend now.”

The Captain is counting down the days until November’s pre-season.