Liverpool full-back Jon Flanagan has declared himself “100 per cent” having not played all season due to a knee problem that required him to undergo surgery in September.
Flanagan, born on Merseyside and brought through the Reds’ academy, was surprisingly launched into the first team last season and ended up making 25 appearances for Brendan Rodgers’ men.
The 22-year-old hasn’t been able to build on 2013-14’s success, and has instead had to watch from the stands as Liverpool have gradually worked towards replicating their scintillating form of a year ago.
His aim now is to earn a place in the starting lineup again, and he is delighted that he is ready to launch a challenge for a place in the side.
“I’m very close – I’ve been doing light bits of training with the squad,” Flanagan told the club’s official website.
“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.”
An international call-up beckoned on the back of his impressive displays last season, and his injury has halted his development on both a domestic and international front.
“It has been frustrating,” the defender continued. “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.”
As was the case with Daniel Sturridge before his return, Flanagan has been studying his individual game, and looking to improve his tactical awareness without having to step onto the training field.
Rodgers, and sports psychiatrist Steve Peters have worked tirelessly with the 22-year-old, delivering advice and encouragement on a daily basis.
“Watching the game and wanting to be involved is tough for any player,” Flanagan admits.
“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.”
One player who understands exactly what the Englishman has had to bear to reach this point is Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge.
The prolific finisher spent five hard months on the sidelines too, but launched his much-anticipated comeback with a goal at the end of January.
When Sturridge returned from his setback at the end of January, he marked his return with a goal against West Ham United. Flanagan – who is full of praise for how the striker has bounced back from injury – wants to make a similarly positive impression upon his comeback.
“I don’t know about scoring!” said the full-back with only one Liverpool goal to his name.
“But to see that he has been out that long, it has been frustrating for him as well, then to come back and score and be successful and everything OK with his injury, makes me look and want to hopefully do that as well.”
“We have done rehab together. He is back now and fully fit. He keeps telling me to keep going and that I’ll get there. He is always giving me advice and help.”
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