Kewell hungry to return

Harry Kewell is confident he will return from his latest setback better than ever.

Liverpool winger Harry Kewell is confident he will return from his latest setback better than ever.

Kewell has returned to Australia for surgery on the big toe on his left foot, which became infected by septic arthritis.

He has also undergone a minor procedure on his right ankle and is likely to spend a further fortnight recuperating in his homeland.

The former Leeds United ace is reluctant to put a timescale on his return to action, but expects to be in great shape when he does pull a Liverpool shirt on again.

"No question - I'll come back stronger, quicker and fitter," Kewell told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"I've been out for a long time and I'm hungry to come back into it - that's what I'm really looking forward to.

"I can walk around now, but I have to be very, very careful. It's going to be a couple of weeks before I can do anything.

"I'm in a bit of pain now, but expect to be fine in a couple of days."

Kewell also offered his gratitude to Liverpool, who have stood by the 28-year-old during an Anfield career which has been plagued by injury problems.

He added: "We've discussed everything since I've been out here.

"They know exactly what I'm doing and that's how we like it, we like to keep everything open.

"They've been fantastic through the whole thing as well."