Midfielder delighted to be back challenging for first-team place
ZOLTAN Gera admits he has got another battle on his hands after making his long-awaited comeback from injury at Newcastle on Saturday.
The Baggies midfielder has spent the last ten months overcoming anterior cruciate knee ligament damage.
He made a cameo as a late substitute at St James’ Park and, while he is delighted to be back in first-team action, he knows his biggest challenge is securing a place in Steve Clarke’s starting XI.
“Obviously it’s great to be back,” said Gera,” ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Manchester City (ko 8pm).
“We were disappointed with the result on Saturday but it was great to be back in the action with the boys.
“I am delighted.
“It was a hard ten months but it has gone quickly and the most important thing is that I feel great.
“My knee is giving me no problems at all and it feels stronger than ever, and stronger than last time, so I don’t have any fear to be playing.
“So I just want to play well now and play a lot. That’s important to me.
“I feel fit and strong so hopefully I can get back to my best.
“I found out just before the game in the meeting I was involved, when the gaffer said I was on the bench, so I was happy.”
The 34-year-old magic Magyar, who signed a new one-year contract in the summer added: “It’s a very, very strong squad and it will be difficult to get back in.
“But hopefully when I get the chance I will prove I can play in this team.
“We have a good squad with very good players and we have never been stronger.
“It’s good for the team and players – more competition.”