Celtic flop Shane Duffy admits he "forgot what it felt like to play football" during his nightmare Parkhead spell.
The Republic of Ireland international arrived with a big billing when he signed from Brighton on loan.
A goalscoring start boded well for Duffy but his dream move turned sour as Celtic failed to secure 10 In A Row.
The centre-back was criticised for his performances, particularly against Rangers and in a 4-1 home thrashing by Sparta Prague.
Duffy didn't make a single appearance after a win over St Johnstone in February, but returned to action for Ireland in friendlies against Andorra and Hungary.
And the 29-year-old admits he had almost forgotten how it felt to lace up his boots after his Parkhead disappointment.
Duffy told RTE: "It’s always tough when you go through a tough spell — most footballers do at some part of their career. I’ve went through it, and I’ve got a great manager who trusts me. I’ve got no complaints about not playing in the team.
“I try to play my role, trying to help the younger lads when I haven’t been playing football.
"So I’ve total belief and thanks to the manager for giving me a game, first and foremost. I enjoyed it again.
"I sort of forgot what it felt like to play football. Hopefully that’s the bad part over. Another rest and I’ll be ready to be back next season, kick on and show everyone how good I am again.”
