Image:Barker: Derby defender looking forward to returning to full fitness next season
Derby's Shaun Barker is convinced he will be fully fit next season after undergoing knee surgery.
Derby defender relishing return to fitness following knee operation
Derby County's Shaun Barker is convinced he will be fully fit next season after undergoing knee surgery.
The 28-year-old defender suffered an ongoing problem throughout the 2010/11 campaign before having the operation in April.
And although Barker only missed three games, he believes being unable to participate in many of the training sessions had a significant impact on his overall fitness.
But now, having overcome the frustration of a particularly demanding season, the former Blackpool player is looking forward to getting back to his best.
Painkillers
Barker said: "Painkillers got me through most games but my training was stopped pretty much.
"Fitness-wise I was nowhere near where I could or should have been for a player who was playing week-in, week-out.
"I can't wait to get back to full fitness now I have had the operation."
Barker's return to Pride Park will be welcomed by a team looking to build on a disappointing 19th-placed finish last season.
