Wolves keeper Matt Murray has thrown away his crutches and expects to be fit for pre-season training this summer.
That’s the news which will delight Wolves fans as the injury-cursed 26-year-old keeper, last season’s Player of the Year, predicts a full recovery from the cruciate knee surgery which ruled him out for this campaign.
That was the 14th operation Murray has had to endure in a career which has effectively been restricted to two full first-team campaigns for Wolves since his outstanding potential was recognised by the five-year contract awarded to him nearly 11 years ago by ex-boss Mark McGhee.
But after having the plaster removed at the weekend to regain his crutches-free mobility, Murray now has his eyes fixed on an April 2 scan which he hopes will clear him to begin his rehab.
“It was such a relief to get rid of the plaster and the crutches,” says the popular giant keeper, hero of last season’s thwarted promotion push and, memorably, the 2003 campaign which took Wolves into the Premiership.
“I had not even been able to drive and for nine weeks I could do absolutely nothing but sit at home and watch TV or read books.
“But I went into the club again on Sunday after the Burnley match and it was fantastic.
“The lads and the gaffer have been on the phone to me all the time to try to keep me involved and I really appreciate that.
“I’ve now got this scan on April 2 which I hope will clear me to start on my comeback.
“But my intention is clear - there will be no holidays this summer, just a slog to make sure I am ready for pre-season training.”
Murray is full of admiration for Wayne Hennessey’s outstanding season in his absence which, in the event of the previous No.1 returning to full fitness, will give Mick McCarthy an embarrassment of riches in the position.
He adds: “Don’t forget Carl Ikeme as well, he’s a terrific young keeper as well.
“It is going to be a terrific scrap to get that starting place but I am confident I will be making a challenge.”
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