Ashley Jackson is back from injury and relishing the exciting times ahead.

The England international, currently playing his hockey for East Grinstead, was sidelined for eight months with an abdominal injury but is gradually getting back to full fitness.

"It’s good to be back and looking forward to what’s ahead," he said.

"I feel fit and strong but I’m always looking to improve and get even fitter and even stronger. It doesn’t matter how much rehab work you do off the pitch, it’s playing matches that will count for me now.

"I’ve played in four matches so far, two against Korea and two against Germany. In the first one I was only on the pitch for about 20 minute, but the last I was on for 55. I’m aware that I’m still off the pace, mainly defensively.

"I was out for eight months in total and there were a couple of weeks in there that were bleak and depressing when the rehab seemed to hit a wall."

Jackson, a former Sutton Valence School pupil, is now part of the England team which begin the defence of their European title in Germany. The Eurohockey Nations Championships begin on Saturday, August 20.