Katarina Johnson-Thompson claims she is “fully fit and raring to go” after recovering from a ruptured achilles.
Britain’s world heptathlon champion competes in Britain for the first time in two years at Gateshead tonight.
She does so after finally breaking her silence to reveal details of the injury and admit to fearing that it could have ruined her Olympic dream.
“It’s been a long, tough road and I’m glad that I’m at the other end of it,” said the Liverpudlian, who competes in the long jump at the British Grand Prix.
“I ruptured my Achilles in late December and It was a big injury. I was very sad, almost devastated at one point.
“I had a lot of training to catch up on and it could have gone one of two ways. I’m just glad it went in the best direction for me where I’m able to compete at my third Olympics.”
The Tokyo Games get underway in 10 days' time and Johnson-Thompson plans to contest one more competition before flying out.
She faces a massive challenge in Japan in trying to depose reigning Olympic champion Nafi Thiam - particularly as the injury was to her jumping leg.
“But I high jumped off it last week, which is a very good sign,” she added. “I’m long jumping off the same leg. I haven’t changed legs. Everything has healed. I’m 100 per cent in my body.
“My left leg is now stronger than my right because of it. I’m in a good place. I’m obviously missing competition practice but that’s why I’m here.”
Asked whether she expected to bring home a medal, the 28-year-old replied: “That’s my aim (otherwise) I wouldn’t have worked so hard as I have for the last seven months to get to the position I’m in.
“I’m pushing every day to still achieve my targets.”
