Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez has revealed his delight at finally making a comeback from his long-term knee injury.
The holding man had played in just two games over the past year, but was able to get back into action for the Bavarian club against SV Darmstadt 98 just under two weeks ago.
"The first games really did feel like being 17 years old again and playing at this level of football for the first time. It's brilliant," Martinez told the club's official website.
"I don't think my ability on the pitch has changed. I'm the same and do the same as I did before. But I might be taking more care of myself.
"Before the injury I was a bit careless at times. Now I'm very focused on my work and I do extra drills after each training session. I think I can say I'm more professional now."
Martinez has been at Bayern for three years since joining from Athletic Bilbao in 2012.
Christopher Dodd
