Defender Max Lowe says he was keen to stay at Nottingham Forest for his rehabilitation as he made his way back from injury.
While loanees sometimes return to their parent clubs for treatment, rather than head back to Sheffield United, the left-back remained at the City Ground when he suffered a groin problem.
Lowe was sidelined for two months after suffering the injury in the 1-1 draw at Reading in November, but was eager to still feel part of the Forest squad.
And since making his comeback last month, he has pretty much picked up from where he left off, showing the consistent form which has made him a key figure for the Reds.
“I wanted to stay here for my rehab,” said Lowe. “That’s the first thing I spoke to the gaffer about, that I wanted to stay here, be part of the changing room, stay with the boys and be in amongst it.
“I think the worst thing I could have done was take a step away and go back to Sheffield when I’m part of the team, so I’m not going to leave halfway through the season.
“It’s something I wanted to do.
“When you get a serious injury, you know straight away. When I did it, I knew it was bad. I just didn’t know how long I was going to be out for.
“I was happy it was just eight weeks, from the scans.
“I felt like I was playing well and we were doing well as a team.
“It just came out of nowhere. I just felt a pain in my groin and that was me for two months.
“It happened so quick, and it was going from playing to watching in the stands, that it took me a long time to adjust. But I’m happy to be back involved.”
Midfielder Jack Colback filled in in defence while Lowe was out of action, with Forest maintaining their resurgence under Steve Cooper as they continued to pick up results.
“When you get injured it always feels like it comes at the worst time. It was just good to see the boys picking up results while I was out,” Lowe added.
“It’s frustrating watching from the sidelines, so I’m happy to be able to help the boys out again.
“Jack filled in at left-back while I was out and was fantastic. He didn’t put a foot wrong. That gives opportunities for lads to play in midfield. It just shows how strong our squad is.
“It’s healthy competition. Everyone has got a right to be putting their name forward so it’s a hard decision for the gaffer at a weekend.”
