Joe Rodon is itching to return to training with his Swansea City team-mates as he completes the final stages of his recovery from a broken metatarsal.
The 21-year-old centre-half had been enjoying a stand-out debut campaign for his hometown club before injury misfortune struck in the victory over Sheffield United in January.
Rodon - who signed a new contract through to 2022 at the Liberty in November - has been a frustrated spectator ever since, but a return to playing action is now within sight.
He is hopeful of being back in full training next week, although he knows he will have to be able to build up his fitness before getting back out in a white shirt.
Nevertheless, he is looking forward to putting his misfortune behind him.
"It was a big setback for me and it couldn’t have come at a worse time," he said.
"It happens though, and I was happy that we managed to win the game.
"I feel like I’ve been sidelined for a long time, but I’m at the final stages now so hopefully everything goes to plan, and I’ll be back on the pitch soon.
"I’ve not had a lengthy injury like this before, so it’s been a bit of a learning experience for me.
"We are on the last stage now, so I’m running outside and after this week I’m hoping to be back in full training."
Rodon has missed 11 games since being forced off against the Blades, and admits watching on the sidelines has been difficult as the Swans have battled to keep themselves in the play-off race while reaching the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
But he has thanked the medical staff - and fellow injury victims Leroy Fer and Martin Olsson - for their support during his recovery.
"I’m not a composed fan at all. I just want to be out on the pitch and involved in the game," said the defender.
"It’s difficult because you want to be part of training, the meetings and games, but I’ve been in the physio room. Our medical staff have been brilliant with me, though, and I’m really thankful for that.
"Leroy and Martin have really helped me too. They have motivated me further and they lift your mood a lot.
"They are experienced guys and they have come back from long spells out with injury, so I’ve listened a lot to what they have to say."
