Oakley: I was very lucky

Oakley damaged knee ligaments during a Premiership clash with Middlesbrough last September and missed the remainder of the campaign.

He has yet to return to fitness since Sturrock replaced Gordon Strachan as manager but is keen to be involved in the first-team set-up again.

The 26-year-old admits the injury could have been more serious and posed a threat to the rest of his career.

But as he edges towards the final stages of his rehabilitation, Oakley is keen to avoid any further setbacks such as the one he encountered not long after picking up the initial injury.

"Although I missed virtually the whole of last season I still regard myself as being very lucky," said Oakley.

"I could so easily have done even more damage.

"I let it settle down for a couple of weeks but just as I was looking forward to trying to win back my place, I collapsed in agony.

"I've still got a little way to go but my sprinting has improved."