Ciaran Clark has spoken of the frustration at being injured over the busy festive period and his delight at returning to Newcastle United's starting eleven.
The Republic of Ireland international made his first start in more than a month as the Magpies held on for a point at Wolves on Saturday.
Having forced his way back into the first-team fold under Steve Bruce and netting a couple of vital goals along the way, Clark suffered a calf injury after the victory over Southampton at St James' Park.
The 30-year-old had to watch from the sidelines as the injury-hit Magpies suffered three straight defeats over Christmas and New Year, and struggled to a draw in the FA Cup at League One outfit Rochdale.
Clark struggled for game-time under former boss Rafa Benitez and previously admitted he considered leaving the club in the summer.
Speaking to the club's website, the defender was disappointed to pick up the knock after enjoying an impressive run in the starting eleven, and hopes to "crack on" with United's busy fixture list starting with the replay with Rochdale.
Clark said: "For me, it was great to be back in. It was frustrating at the time to get injured at that point of the season after getting a good run of games. It was a tough one over Christmas, but I'm delighted to be back in.
"I had a good week's training and topped it off with a good point. Now we can crack on over the next couple of days and get ready for the FA Cup replay."
