Rangers star Nikola Katic admits he struggled at times to deal with missing out on playing during his side's incredible league winning campaign last season.
The centre back missed the entire year with a cruciate knee ligament injury picked up in pre-season and he admits he was hurting throughout the campaign.
But he hailed Rangers for their support and willingness to help him in any way they could as they ensured he got back to Croatia to be with his family during a difficult period.
With Covid-19 rife and lockdown restrictions in place, Glasgow could have been a lonely place for Katic with his family back home and being unable to take part in training.
Steven Gerrard and the club allowed him to return to his homeland to continue his rehab and it's something he insists he'll always be thankful for the club.
And while he admits he struggled to be watching on, he was full of pride for his pals as they ended a decade of hurt for Rangers supporters to win the title.
He told RangersTV: "It’s been such a long time out of the team and struggling with a tough injury but I am happy that’s behind me and I’m ready to go with the team again.
"The club were great. I’ll always be grateful for that support from the staff, the medical staff and my team mates. Everyone was really good with me, they all knew I was facing tough times.
"The club always found a way to help me, to get me positive and connect me with my family. We all know how difficult it was to travel last season so they always did their best to make me happy and I will always be grateful for that.
"On one side it was really difficult and painful and not be part of it as much as you want to be but from the other side I was truly happy for the team because I’ve been here for three years with them and I know how much effort they put in every day and how hard they worked to be there.
"I was so happy with them when they achieved it."
Katic is now back in full training and could even make his playing return when Rangers face Partick Thistle on Monday night, although it's likely he'll be eased back in to things.
But he's buzzing to get going and he's determined to prove he's ready to claim back his place in the Ibrox team despite strong competition with six centre backs currently on the books.
He added: "I’m desperate, honestly. I lost so much with my injury so I am desperate to play and so excited.
"I’m giving 24 hours a day to be as ready as possible to help the team and prove to the manager and fans how ready I am."
