Former Liverpool man speaks on return to football after six months out

An ex-Liverpool midfielder has spoken candidly about his return to football following a six-month injury layoff. His last competitive match before injury was an April 2025 fixture against Hoffenheim, and he could not play again until late October. His comeback appearances included coming off the bench in a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Manchester City on November 5 and starting in a 1-1 Bundesliga draw with Hamburg on November 8.

Reflecting on his rehabilitation journey, he revealed multiple setbacks, describing it as "perhaps the most difficult phase" of his career. He recounted instances where he made substantial progress in rehab only to feel pain again, forcing him to restart his recovery. The mental challenge during this time was significant, but he remained positive with strong support from the club’s physio Peter Kuhnt, rehab coach Dennis Morschel, and teammates Schlotti and Juju, who assisted with his recovery process.

He admitted that playing after such an extended absence was tough and that regaining match fitness will take time, noting he was not yet ready for the intensity of playing every three days. The long break, he acknowledged, came at an appropriate time as he works to rebuild both fitness and confidence in his body.

Overall, the player’s six-month absence has been a lengthy battle from the sidelines, but his recent return marks an important positive milestone in his career. His openness about the difficulties and setbacks highlights the physical and mental demands of overcoming serious injury in professional football.