Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has spoken about his gruelling recovery from a long-term knee injury that has kept him out of action since the back-end of last season.
The former Arsenal midfielder’s impressive first season at Anfield was cut short after suffering multiple ligament damage in his right knee during the Reds’ 5-2 win over Roma in April.
Oxlade-Chamberlain was one of Jurgen Klopp’s key players in their run to the Champions League final that ended in disappointment against Real Madrid in Kyiv.
The midfielder has been ruled out for the majority of the current season, however the 25-year-old is hoping he can make a comeback in the latter stages of the campaign.
“I’d love to be able to make an appearance, at least, before the end of the season,” he said.
“Depending on what we’re doing, and if I’m really needed—I’m sure even when I’m back I won’t be fully at the races, or fully fit, up to scratch.
“It would be nice just to get a few appearances before the end of the season, probably more mentally, to prove that I can do it.
“Then [I can] have a good pre-season and start fresh next season.”
Speaking in a video uploaded by Liverpool FC on his journey back to fitness, Oxlade-Chamberlain admitted he knew “straight away” that he was “in a bit of trouble.”
He admitted there are days where he struggles, but is appreciative of the support received by the Liverpool boss, whilst he spoke fondly of Rhian Brewster, who has also been sidelined with a long-term injury.
“You probably have a lot more bad days than good days when you’re in rehab,” he added.
“You’re in here with the lads everyday, you have your laughs and jokes with them, then around 11 o’clock, 12 o’clock, they put their boots on and you’re left in a silent room.
“It’s nice for me to have a younger lad I can sort of guide through as well—I had injuries when I was a similar age to him.”
