Brentford striker Farid El Alagui is determined to put a torrid year behind him and make an impact at the club this season.
The Moroccan striker suffered a serious knee injury just 10 games into last term after a summer move from Falkirk and missed almost the entire campaign.
But on Tuesday he came off the bench to score two crucial goals, including the winner, against Dagenham & Redbridge to send Brentford through to the second round of the Capital One Cup.
And he now hopes he has put his problems well and truly behind him.
“It’s been a long road. I had a bad time with injuries but you have to deal with it,” he said.
“It was difficult being away from my family, but everyone at the club has helped me along the way.
“I want to make up for lost time. I’m desperate to help out and have an impact this year to show to everybody I’m worthy of being here.”
Bees manager Uwe Rosler has added two strikers to the squad this summer, signing Will Grigg from Walsall and youngster Conor McAleny on loan from Everton.
Clayton Donaldson was the club’s highest goalscorer last season and Paul Hayes is still an option for Rosler, meaning El Alagui has plenty of competition for a place.
But he said: “We need a good season and competition for places will help that. If you don’t have that you will struggle. It will bring out the best in everyone.
“All of the strikers here are different. We have different qualities and the gaffer will use us as and when he sees fit. When he calls me I’ve got to be ready.”
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This post was last modified on 10/08/2013