Teixeira relates to Miller

Baggies midfielder gives his backing to stricken team-mate

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 11th December 2008

Teixeira relates to Miller

Teixeira: Over his own injury nightmare

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Filipe Teixeira is more aware than most of the pain Ishmael Miller is experiencing at present.

The Baggies striker has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after rupturing cruciate ligaments in his knee.

Teixeira suffered a similar injury last March - and is only now back on the fringes of a first-team return.

The Portuguese midfielder admits a prolonged period on the sidelines can become frustrating, but has called upon Miller to remain positive throughout his rehabilitation.

Encourage

Teixeira said: "Ish has the same injury as I had and it's a bad one. We need to encourage him because it's a big loss for us - but also for him.

"It's a big thing for him to deal with. He will be worried about the recovery but he is a strong guy and should have no problems.

"I spoke to him on the morning he found out and he was okay, in fact he looked good and was able to walk. When I had my injury I could not walk at all.

"It's difficult for him and us. He won't know what this injury is and for him there is maybe a feeling of sadness and disappointment at the moment.

"These things tend to happen when you don't want them to."

Recovery

Having proven himself that the problem is possible to shake off without any ill effects, Teixerira is backing Miller to bounce back from his latest setback as a better player.

He said: "Ish had been playing well for us when it happened and I think he can come back better.

"Ten years ago such injuries were a bigger problem but now they are treated well and people are prepared for the recovery more.

"Last season the players got promoted when I was injured and I want us to stay up now, not just for Ish but for Neil Clement as well, who also has a knee injury and we must not forget about him. It's important for both Ish and Clem."