West Brom ace Dara O’Shea feels ‘perfect’ amid long-term injury return
Dara O’Shea has admitted he feels ‘perfect’ as his West Brom return finally happened under new manager Steve Bruce.
The Baggies defender sustained a fractured ankle as well as ligament damage whilst playing for the Republic of Ireland in September.
Having played some minutes for the U23’s last week, O’Shea came off the bench to feature against Sheffield United.
“I feel perfect,” O’Shea tells Birmingham Live. “I’ve felt great for the last couple of weeks, it’s just protocol to ease yourself back in. I feel fit, strong. I’m just itching to get back into the team.
“I’ve had a good recovery, I’ve enjoyed it even though it’s been tough at times. There have been some dark days. It’s been good. It’s tested me mentally, and I’ve learned a good bit about myself, these past five months.
“You’re having the highest of highs, then the next thing you know you’re stuck out for five months and you can’t do anything about it. We started the season really well and I was loving it, I really enjoyed the way we were playing. The injury is part and parcel, but it’s behind me now. I’m fit, strong and ready to get going.”
“Next Monday I’ll be in, if selected by the new gaffer. If he wants me involved, I’ll be more than willing to play. I’ll be knocking on his door almost.”
Boost for Bruce
O’Shea has been highly rated by all of his managers and that is unlikely to change under Bruce.
The 22-year-old showcased his undeniable talent regularly before his long-term injury and there is no doubt he will do the same upon his return.
One thing that former Albion boss Valerien Ismael got right during his time at the Hawthorns in his assessment of O’Shea.
The Frenchman dubbed him a ‘warrior’ and claimed he would be like a new signing once he returned which now seems like an understatement.
His presence in the team has been sorely missed in both boxes whilst he has been side-lined.
Not only can the Republic of Irelands international sure up Bruce’s defence but he can do something the majority of West Brom’s players haven’t been able to do all season – score goals.
He scored two goals in five games before suffering his injury and will hope to continue his fine goalscoring form once he finds his feet in the first team again.
In other Albion news, West Brom defender Dara O’Shea returns for U23s.