With coach Joe Schmidt demanding that his team strikes back immediately in Melbourne, he’s been given some major ammo by the return of a key player.

Powerhouse flank Rob Valetini has declared himself fit and ready to go.

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Valetini was sidelined by a calf strain for the opening defeat to the British & Irish Lions in Brisbane, but the back-row enforcer confirmed on Monday that he’s available for selection and wants to contribute at the MCG.

“I had a good week last week with training and came through all right, so yeah, I’ll be available for selection,” said Valetini.

Winner of back-to-back John Eales Medals as Australia’s top player, Valetini admitted missing the 27-19 first Test loss had been tough.

“I was pretty down when I got injured and knew I was going to miss the first Test,” he said.

“But I had to lock in on the rehab and make sure I got the body right for the next two Tests.”

Valetini’s abrasive ball-carrying and breakdown presence were sorely missed as the Lions loose trio of Tadhg Beirne, Tom Curry and Jack Conan dominated the early exchanges in Brisbane.

Now set to return in front of 90,000 fans in his hometown, the 26-year-old is ready to make up for lost time.

“I don’t really feel pressure,” he added.

“It’s just another game of rugby – something I’ve been playing ever since I was young.”

Valetini is expected to take the No 6 jersey from Nick Champion de Crespigny, while fellow injury doubt Will Skelton will also be available for selection.

Veteran prop James Slipper said the Wallabies had taken confidence from their fightback in the second half of the first Test, despite falling short.

“There was disappointment clearly from the result,” said Slipper.

“But there’s belief in the group. We know what’s coming in game two – now it’s about preparation and taking that belief into the next Test.”

Photo: Julian Finney/Getty Images