Neville seeks starting spot
30 Jul 2008 - 10:02:07
England right-back Gary Neville is aware that he is facing a huge challenge to win back a regular starting spot with Manchester United, following a lengthy absence through injury.
The 33-year-old defender damaged ankle ligaments in March 2007 and missed almost the whole of last season, having to watch on as the Red Devils won both the Premier League and the Champions League.
He also saw Wes Brown impress on the right side of the United defence, although Neville is now fit and has enjoyed being back in action during the pre-season programme.
He admitted in the Daily Express: "Last season was very frustrating from a personal point of view. It was very disappointing not be involved in what was such a great season for the club.
"Playing in these matches in pre-season will help my fitness and sharpness and hopefully I can be a part of another successful season.
"It is a big challenge every season at United and for me personally, I have to get back and try and break into a team that has won a double. That is hard enough.
"I can talk about my injuries and being out for 12 months, but Wes has been out with cruciate knee injuries twice in his career. He is an inspiration.
"Last season I would say he was among our top two or three consistent players. He was fantastic throughout.
"I have a number of challenges and one of them is to get in the team ahead of Wes. That's going to be hard the way he performed last season."