Schmeichel's injury frustration

Last updated : 11 February 2003 By FootyMAD

The big Dane, who had spent three weeks on the sidelines with the problem, returned to training last Wednesday without any side effects and was set to take his place between the sticks in the Manchester derby on Sunday.

However, he was denied a derby-day appearance when he pulled up in the warm-up before the game after aggravating the injury again.

"It's a pretty demoralising situation to be in,' admitted Schmeichel.

"I have spent every day for the last five weeks going through the same drills, getting the same treatment.

"I came back to training on Wednesday and then did some proper work on Friday and Saturday and didn't have a problem. Yet I get out onto the pitch at Old Trafford and I lasted 10 minutes in the warm-up.

"I am back to square one now and it is very frustrating."

Schmeichel now has just under two weeks to get himself fit before City's next Premiership clash with Arsenal on February 22nd at Maine Road.