On Monday morning Alex McKinnon, with the support of his coach Wayne Bennett and teammates Willie Mason, Darius Boyd, Korbin Sims and Dane Gagai, spoke about this week’s RiseForAlex Round.

It was an emotional occasion for the 22-year-old, who continues to be overwhelmed with the support he has received since he was injured four months ago. He of course took the opportunity to say thank you for the continued support from near and far.

McKinnon also provided an update on his recovery to date and expressed his excitement about returning home to Newcastle for Sunday’s match against the Gold Coast Titans at Hunter Stadium.

And it won’t be just a special occasion in Newcastle.

All NRL clubs have chosen to support the RiseForAlex Fund in both Rounds 19 and 20, enabling the fans to make donations by purchasing a RiseForAlex wristband which will be sold at venues across this weekend and next.

Before then, The Footy Show are bringing this week’s show to Newcastle and hosting a special telethon for the RiseForAlex Fund.

The Fund has been established to provide ongoing financial and medical support to McKinnon and is independently managed by a board of directors.

Lines will open for donations on Thursday night from 8.30pm, with 150 Telstra volunteers and players from several clubs answering calls throughout the evening.

McKinnon, his coach and teammates spoke additionally to The Footy Show following today’s media conference, which will be aired during the telethon.

Bennett, Boyd and Sims all provided an emotional insight into how McKinnon’s injury has affected them personally as well as the team.

McKinnon then returned to his spinal rehabilitation centre while his coach and teammates travelled to Newcastle, this time knowing it wasn’t long before McKinnon would be finally joining them too.

Stay tuned to hear a special song that has been written for Alex!

To get your ticket for Sunday's game, CLICK HERE.