Agger: I have more to give LFC
Daniel Agger has outlined his determination to return to pre-season training for Liverpool in stronger condition than ever before.
The Denmark defender missed the final weeks of 2010-11 after sustaining a knock to the tendon behind his knee during the 2-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion on April 2.
Overall, injuries and illness restricted Agger to just 21 appearances during the campaign and he admits to being a frustrated spectator as his teammates displayed signs of resurgence under Kenny Dalglish.
However, he's worked industriously at Melwood to ensure he's in peak condition to begin pre-season training in July.
Agger told Liverpoolfc.tv: "The injury is coming along okay. It's been really hard the last few weeks, especially when I was on crutches, in a brace and couldn't move.
"I am definitely confident I can come back stronger.
"I know I say this every time, but I have really done everything this time to make every single muscle in my body stronger and I have done everything in the right way.
"If I could do something to make sure I wouldn't get injured again, I would do it no matter what it was.
"Of course, it's always frustrating to be injured, no matter if the team is playing well or poorly.
"There is nobody who is more frustrated than me, but I just have to focus and stay positive."
Agger has suffered more than his fair share of injury setbacks since arriving on Merseyside from Brondby in January 2006 - but the 26-year-old is aiming to put past experiences to good use and ensure he takes every step possible to make certain he's right to return.
"The important thing for me is that I have pre-season to look forward to and I am not in a rush now," said Agger.
"That's been the problem the last few times I have been injured - I've been in a rush to get back. I'd come back early but would get a new injury.
"It's really good for me now that I have all the way until pre-season to get ready."
Agger admits the road to full fitness can sometimes be a lonely one, though there is one thought that has kept his spirits up.
And he's relishing the prospect of a starring in a bright future for Liverpool under Dalglish.
He said: "The toughest part of being injured is trying to stay positive.
"It is nothing compared to being on the pitch at Anfield - being outside is a lot worse and a lot harder.
"I appreciate playing football more. I really, really enjoy playing now.
"I have always enjoyed football, but you appreciate it more when you have been out injured so much. You just enjoy every little minute on the pitch, both in training and in games.
"The memory of the games I've played and thoughts of the future are what have kept me going.
"I know I have a lot more to give to this club if I can keep fit."