After signing his new contract, Aaron Hickey gave an injury update, revealing when he is set to return to the first team.
The defender has been out for 14 months with a hamstring injury and he discussed just how difficult that time has been, before expressing his excitement about a return to training nearing.
Hickey said: “I’m back on the pitch running, so I’m not far away. I’m just building up fitness and, hopefully, in the next few weeks, I’ll be back training with the team.
“It’s been a very long time - it’s been difficult and disappointing for me. But these things happen and, now, I just have to make sure I’m mentally strong and ready to come back into the team again.
“It’s been hard. I had my first surgery, which didn’t go well, so that was a major disappointment for me. I had another surgery, worked my way back, I was back running, and then I felt something again.
“I feel like I’ve been very unlucky, to be honest. But now I’m feeling good and I’m fully focused on being back and training with the team.
“I go and support the boys nearly every week and it’s great that they’re doing well - we’ve got a great blend of players here and it’s all starting to come together.”
"It’s been a very long time - it’s been difficult and disappointing for me. But these things happen and, now, I just have to make sure I’m mentally strong and ready to come back into the team again"
Hickey has committed his future to Brentford, signing a new contract until 2028. Before his injury, the Scotland international was a key part of the Bees' defence, making 37 appearances for the club before his injury last term. And he can't wait to return to the team to give something back to the club, after the faith
When asked why he wanted to sign a new deal, he stated: “Because it’s Brentford!
“I’m absolutely delighted to be here and playing Premier League football. It’s a great club, the atmosphere at the stadium is incredible, and I just really enjoy being here.
“I’m focused now on coming back and playing with the team.”
He added: “The club has been very loyal to me, despite this injury. I’m very thankful for that. I now want to get back on the pitch and give something back.
“I’ll be back - and I’ll be back faster, strong and fitter, ready to do whatever I can for the club.”