St Helens scrum-half Luke Walsh has revealed that he thought his career was over as a result of a crushing injury he suffered last season.
The 27-year-old snapped his fibula in the Saints' 44-22 victory over Widnes Vikings in July, and he was initially ruled out of action for up to five months.
"When I first saw it, I thought that was it - it was my career over," Walsh told the club's official website. "I was thinking all sorts of stuff. Thankfully it was OK.
"The cast comes off shortly and then I'll have a boot on for four weeks and I can get back walking. It wasn't as bad as we first feared but it will be a long process. It's been a frustrating year as I've had a few injuries but this certainly is the biggest of my career.
"I can't thank the fans enough. All the support I've had since the injury has been crazy. I've had people coming up to me saying 'get well' and it has surprised me. They are the best fans I've been involved with."
St Helens, who are currently top of the Super League table, face Leeds Rhinos tomorrow night.