It’s been a long road for Calum Flanagan but finally the popular Redditch United defender was able to return to action in the Pitching In Southern League Premier Central club’s last game.
The 31 year-old, who is a product of the Aston Villa Academy, has been laid low with a knee injury for the best part of a year.
“It’s been a long and frustrating time,” he admitted. “I’ve headed and kicked every ball from the sidelines.
“It’s in my nature to be vocal, competitive and have a strong will-to-win, so having to watch games and not be able to make an impact on the pitch has been very difficult for me.
“But it’s pleasing to be back now; my match fitness levels aren’t where I want them to be at the moment, but that will come in time.”
Flanagan’s return to the fray came as the Reds beat Long Eaton United 2-0 in their last outing.
“It was nice to be able to come back into a winning team and, importantly, one that kept a clean sheet,” he added. “I thought that I was steady and did the job asked of me. It was just great to be back out there and involved.
“We’ve got a good group of lads here and we’ve been able to add extra quality to it as the season has gone on.
“There are some good sides in the Premier Central, but feel that we are one of them and don’t fear anyone.”
Manager, Matt Clarke, was also delighted to see the former Solihull Moors, Rushall Olympic and Halesowen Town man back.
“Having Calum back was a real bonus for us,” he said. “He brings balance, composure and calmness as well as that leadership you need on the pitch.
“I thought he was outstanding against Long Eaton; what he brings to the team was there for all to see and you couldn’t tell that he had not played a game for us in ten months.
“Hopefully we can get him back into action on a longer term basis now as his presence will give us a tremendous boost.”
Redditch United turn their attention to Isuzu FA Trophy matters on Saturday as they play host to League rivals, Leamington.
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