England and Gloucester full-back Olly Morgan considered retirement

The 27-year-old hasn't played since tearing the ligaments in his knee against Worcester in January 2012.

Morgan, who has been capped twice by England, had initially expected to be sidelined for six months, however an infection and a further five operations mean he is now unlikely to return to action until next season.

But Morgan is confident he will soon be tearing up Premiership defences once again - especially after a successful trip to America.

"It has been going pretty well," Morgan told Sky Sports.

"Obviously I've had my complications and issues with the infection but I got back from the States last week where I spent time with Bill Knowles going over the injury. I learnt a lot from the trip and what things I need to work on.

Good position

"I probably won't play again this season but it gives me the chance to work on building up to next season.

"I'd be stupid not to have thought about retirement because of the time I've had out and with the infection and the five operations, but I feel I will come out better as a result.

"I'm running again and changing direction but there are still some weaknesses there that I need to work on. I've worked my socks off over the past 15 months, though, and I feel I have put myself in a good position but there is still a way to go."

Despite having spent so long out of action, Morgan insists he will have no problem with returning to the field of play.

"When you've had an injury like this people do talk about whether there will be a loss of speed or issues with contact, however, I've had serious injuries in the past and dealt with them mentally," said Morgan, who could be involved with the Gloucester squad - either on or off the pitch - at JP Morgan Premiership Rugby 7s Series in the summer. "This is no different. I am mentally in a good place."

Confident

While Morgan continues his rehabilitation, his team-mates will be pushing hard to break into the Premiership play-offs.

The club are currently fifth, just three points behind Northampton with five games to go.

However, Morgan claims the Cherry and Whites are optimistic about their chances.

"We've been confident all year and we play our rugby with confidence," he added.

"We've had players coming back from injury and we will enter the business end of the season believing we can do it.

"We've three games at Kingsholm. They are hard games but if we can come out of those with three wins then we will be in a good position. We've two tough away games as well - against Exeter and Sale - but it is all to play for."

The J P Morgan Premiership Rugby 7s kicks off on 1st August at Gloucester with rounds at Franklin Gardens and Allianz Park and the Final at The Recreation Ground. For tickets and more information visit: www.jpmorgan7s.com or follow @jpmorganrugby7s