Tyrhys Dolan is hoping to be involved for Blackburn Rovers against Wrexham after finishing his rehabilitation after a knee injury.
The forward was ruled out for two months after picking up the problem against Birmingham City at the end of November.
It was a cruel blow for Dolan, who had just found his best form of the season after a difficult start to the campaign. However, he is set to become the latest player to return and bolster Jon Dahl Tomasson's squad.
The 22-year-old had initially feared he'd be set for a longer spell on the sidelines but is now targeting some involvement at Ewood Park on Monday.
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"I'm really close, I've just finished my exit session," Dolan told RoversTV.
"It's a happy day for me, it's been quick, I thought it would be a lot longer than what it has been. Today was the last session so I am happy!
"When I first did it, I spoke to Josh (O'Keefe, club physio), the estimation was three to four months so in my head that was what I worried about. It was the worst case and I was worried my season might be over.
"When I heard eight weeks, I was buzzing after thinking it would be worse. It's been about seven, we have smashed through it and the staff have been quality with me.
"I am hoping to be back for Wrexham. Hopefully, the manager and the staff can agree to that, I want to be back as soon as possible.
"It's been an enjoyable rehab. I've never been in this situation before. I must be a quick healer! I'm trying to stay out of there and be on the grass."
He added: "When you feel like the team need the numbers and the help and you're sat feeling useless, it's a tough feeling. You want to be out there helping the team.
"It's been tough just watching the boys. The first time I was in the gym, I said to the lads 'when are you going training', I didn't realise how many we had in the injured squad!
"We have come back at similar times so hopefully we can gel together and get the connection back.
"We've been on a tough run. I can't remember the last time we went through a run like this. It's about sticking together and getting everyone back and ticked off.
"I am confident when we get the numbers back and we will be able to turn it around. I want to be back as quickly as possible, helping the team and starting. I am doing what I can to do that."
Dolan's injury came after he'd found his feet playing as a false nine for Tomasson. His performances were much improved and he has been a real miss for the team.
After searching for his 'best role' in the last few years, the forward now feels at home in the centre of the pitch and wants to continue playing in that position moving forward.
"I felt like I was getting in my stride," he admitted. "I was playing at a consistent level and I felt I was producing. I'd come out of my bad point and I showed some resilience.
"That was frustrating with the injury, I was back playing at my level. I'm confident I can do that and get back where I left off.
"Things don't happen when you want. You have to adapt and be resilient, face setbacks. It's nothing new to me, I am strong headed and I'm happy to come back
"I have enjoyed playing the new role, it's given me freedom to move around, drop in, link play. I was enjoying the false nine, like a ten role, the manager gives me freedom.
"I like playing that role and that's where I want to come back. I like being involved there. Naturally, I'll play anywhere but that's where I think I've found my feet.
"I personally think I'm better in the middle when I'm always involved. When you're on the wings, you can be out of it. I need to be constantly involved."
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