Liverpool full-back Jon Flanagan has spoken of his excitement to be closing in on full fitness after spending over six months out with a knee injury.
The 22-year-old became the club's first-choice left-back in 2013-14, contributing a string of fine performances in the Reds' title challenge, but has yet to make an appearance in the current campaign after undergoing knee surgery on an injury he picked up in pre-season.
Now, Flanagan admits he is relishing the opportunity to return to Brendan Rodgers' set-up, despite the fact that he risks worsening the injury if he rushes back into first-team action.
"I'm very close - I've been doing light bits of training with the squad," responded the defender, when asked how close his return is.
"As of Friday, I'm back in full training with the squad, so it's good. I'm delighted. I'm 100 per cent now and it is exciting times. I'm back in training with the lads and feeling great.
"I can't rush it. I've got to bide my time; I'm obviously not match fit so I've just got to keep going and it will all come together nicely I think."
After having established himself as one of the starters in Liverpool's side, earning half-hearted likenesses to Brazilian World Cup winner Cafu, Flanagan admits the time spent out on the sidelines has been difficult at times.
"It has been frustrating," he said. "I had a problem with my knee and thought I would be back a lot quicker than I have been.
"Everyone had a great year last year and we were unlucky in the league. For me personally it was a great season, to be in the squad.
"I wanted to kick on this year, but unfortunately with the injury I haven't. I would say it is the most frustrating season I have had to date.
"I have had a few setbacks along the way but my knee is fine now and hopefully I can just push on."
But though Flanagan has struggled to cope with the time he has spent out since undergoing corrective surgery on his knee, he adds that his boss Rodgers, and other senior figures such as Steve Peters at the club, have been a huge help pyschologically.
"Watching the game and wanting to be involved is tough for any player," the defender said.
"It has been tough but what has got me through it is keeping going, trying to see the light and get back in the team.
"You're not in and around the squad, you're training at different times and in rehab. So when you see them, it's always good to get nice feedback from them. They are always interested and have been a big help, as has my family.
"I've been speaking to Steve Peters - he has been helping me with the mental side.
"I've always been looking at my game since I've been out. The manager has told me to do that and look at what I can improve.
"Brendan has been great. When I see him every day, he is always telling me to keep going and keep fighting and I'll be back. He has been a massive help as well."