Player Profile - Ryan Girdler

Ryan Girdler was telling his Penrith teammates this week how good it would be to sit out most of the NRL season and come back fresh for the finals.

"They said `what are you talking about, you have done'," recalled Girdler, who has been restricted to just 11 games this season because of various injuries.

Girdler, 32, admits he's frustrated at being on the sideline for so long in 2004 as his 14-year first grade career draws to a close.

He's hoping the October 3 grand final will be his last game, although the Panthers must first dispose of the Bulldogs at Aussie Stadium on Saturday night.

"I would've loved to have played more games this year," said the former test and NSW centre.

"Obviously I'm not the biggest bloke around and when I get to this age I feel like quitting. Every time someone tackles me something snaps or cracks.

"It's been a bit frustrating but I'm really glad to be back and playing in the finals again."

After overcoming a respiratory illness, Girdler's season didn't begin until round four in April when Penrith beat the Sydney Roosters 22-6 at Telstra Stadium in a grand final rematch.

Hamstring and ankle injuries also cut short Girdler's final season but he has the chance to hang up his boots on a high note.

Girdler says lifting the premiership trophy in consecutive years would be good, but that's more for the fans.

What he really enjoys is the camaraderie and team bonding during the premiership celebrations when all the year's hard work has reaped dividends.

"Sitting back the next day with the boys and looking at each other saying `wow we did it' and blowing each other out, that's what I found was the most satisfying thing about last year."

After eight games for the Blues and nine tests for Australia (including Super League), Girdler won't miss the punishment his body receives on a weekly basis.

"Your body can only do so much. I'm glad to be retiring," he said.

"I know I needed to give it a break and just relax for a little while.

"I know these are going to be, hopefully, my last couple of games but I'm going to enjoy the rest after it."

It's difficult but Girdler says he isn't thinking about retirement.

"There's no use thinking about that. I'll deal with that when it happens," he added.

"I"m just going to enjoy the week and - all the boys embrace the finals.

"They love it. I've seen in the last seven days that everyone has lifted up a notch and there's a real feeling back in the place.

"We're going to give it a good shake."