Campbell looking to push on

Published: Saturday, 18. February, 2012 in category Sunderland

Frazier Campbell admits he thought he may never play again as he looks forward to taking on Arsenal in the FA Cup on Saturday.

Campbell: Delighted to be back in action

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The Sunderland striker spent 18 months out after two knee ligament operations but scored on his long-awaited comeback in the FA Cup against Middlesbrough and then notched a stunner against Norwich in the Premier League.

Campbell admits when he first injured his knee he had no idea how serious it was but when it happened once more he knew exactly what it meant and he feared he might never play again.

The 24-year-old told the Daily Telegraph: "The first one was more shock really. I didn't know how serious it was.

"I'd never been out for more than three weeks so when I went for my scan and the doctor told me it was going to be six months, I couldn't get my head round it, it seemed like such a long time.

"The second one was worse. I was upset then because I was so close to playing again. I knew what it meant to be out for six months and how hard it would be. I was devastated, angry, worried and there were a few tears.

"It's not so long ago two injuries like that on the same knee, it would have been game over for me.

"People said to me I'd be back stronger than ever, but I did contemplate the possibility it could end my career, but I pushed it out of my mind pretty quickly.

"I'm a positive person and I don't like to dwell on negatives. I don't know where I get it from, my dad's miserable and so is my mum. It must be my gran. I think it must have skipped a generation."

Campbell admitted scoring against Middlesbrough on his return was an emotional moment and he is looking to push on.

He added: "When that goal went in against Middlesbrough, it was a massive relief.

"I'd had 18 months sitting on the sidelines, so to score in my first game back was really emotional.

"Until you're back you just don't know what sort of impact the injuries have had.

"Would I be as quick? Would I be as agile? Would I still be able to score goals?

"It was good to know we hadn't lost that. Now the challenge is to get even better."