Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel is thrilled to be back training with the Blues following his frustrating campaign last term.
The Nigeria international was sidelined in April by ankle and knee injuries and missed the end of the season, during which the Blues claimed the Premier League title and the FA Cup.
The 23-year-old then suffered another blow as his injury problems forced him to return home from the World Cup before the tournament had even begun.
But Mikel has been in rehabilitation since then and insists the problems, which required minor surgery, are firmly behind him.
"It was really frustrating to miss out but at the same time I was obviously happy that we won the Double," Mikel told Chelsea's official website.
"Since I came home from South Africa I've been here, working hard on my knee and making sure I am ready for the start of the season.
"I'm fully involved now with pre-season training and have started the double sessions.
"It is going really well, the training is good and the weather has been fantastic, and we are all working hard. I look forward to the rest of the squad joining us and I hope it can be another good season."
Mikel's team-mate at Stamford Bridge - Michael Essien - is in a similar position, having not played since December due to injury.
But like his fellow midfielder, 27-year-old Essien is close to full fitness and has had complete involvement in training so far.
When asked whether Essien's recovery will mean more competition for a spot in midfield this season, Mikel said: "I don't know, I'm working hard and whatever decisions there are are for the manager.
"It is very good to have Essien back. He has been out for a long time, and I hope we can play together in the middle, that would be great."
