Oleg Markov is hitting form after an injury-riddled start to his career at Gold Coast
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Speaking to
AFL.com.au ahead of playing Collingwood at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night, the 26-year-old said getting his confidence back had not come easily.
"I had a few niggles late last year and it led in to the off-season, the pre-season and I just didn't have any peace of mind between the mind and the body," Markov said.
"I had no confidence, no continuity with the body.
"I just battled my own demons in that area, but I'm glad I've overcome that.
Markov's 22-disposal performance against Port Adelaide last Sunday was arguably his best in Gold Coast colours, generating a match-high 690m gained with his willingness to run-and-bounce and take the game on.
He said the club's high performance department and psychologists had played a major role in aligning his mind with his body.
"Dealing with demons, everyone's got their own, and it's not a bad thing," he said.
"For me it's just having a conversation with them going 'hey, I want a bit of change'…I'm glad they've listened."
"I find that I'm a big over-thinker," he said.
"When I think too much I hesitate and second guess everything.
"I had a focus of doing my homework, doing my study at the club during the week, so that when I got on the field I want to get into a no-thinking zone, that flow-state.
"I just want to play off instinct."
