American offers an update on his comeback from his latest injury in a frank interview
Stuart Holden says he is making good progress from his latest injury setback after returning to the UK following his recent rehabilitation work in the United States.
The American international has been sidelined since injuring his knee in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final in July.
And after a number of previous spells out injured, Holden is now back on UK soil to finish his rehabilitation work with the Bolton medical team.
“I’m feeling good right now,” Holden said. “We had a bit of a nightmare flight back from the US on Sunday but managed to get back in time to watch the Wigan game with the fans.
“It’s always a cool experience when you’re sitting with the away fans. It’s a reminder of how passionate they are and I owe a lot to them for the support they've shown me.
“To see the team play again was nice. I've obviously been away for a few months to get fit. I’m now back to continue my end-stage rehab with the medical staff and move towards playing competitive football.
“I’ve been doing a lot of work with a really good personal trainer in LA, Holly Silvers. She’s really got me on a great path and helped me get over the initial disappointment of being injured.
“Once I got over that initial setback which I had not anticipated I was fully focussed on getting fit. That’s what my last five months have been designated towards and I’m really happy with my progress.
“I won’t ever give up. If I keep getting knocked back down I’ll keep getting back up. That’s the one thing for sure, that I’ll always get up and fight until I’m medically told that I can’t ever play football again!
“As far as my body feels now, it’s fantastic. My head is in the right place. I now just need that last little bit to get me over the line.
“I’ve got a bit of strength and plyometric work to do. As far as my running and sprinting work, I’m really up to speed with that. I’m probably ahead of schedule in that respect.
“I’m not really sure how far away I am from actually playing.
“It has been great to see the lads again and has been nice to be involved in all of the banter again.
“It was nice to see Sparky play again, especially as he has gone through something similar to what I’m currently experiencing.
“There’s also a few new faces around the place that I’m yet to meet, so I’m mixing in on that front.
“The support is a big thing that has been driving me on, be it from Bolton fans or supporters in the United States.”