Arsenal forward Danny Welbeck has spoken of his struggles while recovering from a knee injury suffered in April.
The England international underwent surgery in September after several setbacks kept him sidelined with what was initially thought to be a short-term problem.
But Welbeck is expected to return early in the New Year and hopes to make a 'flying' comeback with Arsene Wenger's injury-hit side chasing Premier League and Champions League honours.
"It is difficult. It is my first injury that has kept me out for so long. I had my operation and once that is sorted you can be out for a few more months," Welbeck told Arsenal's official site.
Every injured Arsenal player
"For the first month, in a leg brace, not being able to do anything, on a machine six hours a day, it was very difficult. But you have to try and see the positives. Luckily I had my family around me, my friends came down to London and I had my brothers. It was good to have people around me and have that support.
"You wake up in the morning and know you have double sessions in the gym it is hard but you have to see the positive side and I have learnt a lot more being injured on how to look after your body and prevent injuries. I have to see the positive side and hopefully when I come back, I will be flying."
