Four and a half months is an extremely long recovery period. In terms of possible silver linings, was there something that you learned about in your rehabilitation that you might not have learned about yourself as part of your normal routine?

I had never been out with a long-term injury before. So, it was a case of saying to myself – okay, how can I get a handle on this?

I know that I have a really good support network – people who are always by my side and who always understand me. That also proved to be true during this tough period – that I have people who I can rely on, who energise me, even in the hardest moments. Also, I became more aware of the fact that I’m someone who can push themselves to the limit, even at a tricky time.

It’s an extremely important trait to have when you’re recovering from injury. You need self-motivation to push yourself to the limit. That’s the only way you can get back to the level you were at before.

I’m someone who expects a lot from themselves. I’m also proud of the way that I dealt with the whole situation and know that I can overcome obstacles like that.

After making your comeback, you announced that you might have to put the breaks on and take things a bit easier. How far are you on the road back to being 100% fit again?

Expressing that in percentages is difficult. I’m definitely quite far away from being 100% fit again, with the aim being to play a full 90 minutes again. But that’s completely normal when you’ve been out for such a long time.

That’s why I’m trying to make the most of every moment I get, regardless of whether it’s in training or in matches, and gradually get back to a place where I see myself being physically.

We’re also in very close communication with the coaching staff and the medical department.

Your level of responsibility as vice-captain of RBL has increased again. What does this responsibility to the team mean to you and how do you fulfil it?

Being named vice captain is one thing. The other, and more crucial, thing comes down to what type of person you are. How are you perceived in the dressing room? What characteristics do you use to try and push the team?

I’m someone who has that naturally. I always push myself to the limit and bring the team along with me while doing so.

During my time at academy level and in youth teams, I often captained the side. When you do that, you learn certain things about dealing with situations and teammates. Of course, it’s different at professional level, but I’ve got a lot of experience under my belt now. Now and then, the younger players poke fun at me and say that I’m an old timer. It’s a simple fact that I’ve been a professional for quite a few years now. As a result of that, you have a certain level of experience, and I’m trying to pass it on to others.

I lead the way and set a good example.

How much did you communicate with captain David Raum during your injury. How did he support you?

David and I have known one another for a long time now. He does that very, very well. He leads the way and always gives it his all to boost the team. He was the exact same with me during my recovery. He’s also very happy that I’m back.

We have a great relationship. The start to the season wasn’t exactly what we were hoping for. We all have a collective responsibility to push forwards.