Bouma Looking For Early Christmas Present

Freddie Bouma is hoping he can be back in first team contention by as early as December, but he isn't prepared to rush his return.

Curtis Davies has somewhat set a precedent for returning early from injury, and Bouma will be doing his best to beat him.

Speaking to the official site, Bouma, who yesterday signed a new contract explained:

'It's too early to set targets for my comeback. The doctor has told me if I am lucky I could play in December but I have to be patient.

'If I play in January I will be happy. It's one step at a time.

'The first 10 days were really painful. I was devastated but I realised I couldn't change anything. I couldn't go back in time. That's when I realised I had to look forward and be positive.'

Bouma is recovering at a steady pace at the moment, the plaster has come off and he is regaining use of his ankle now which will slowly build up strength again.

'The plaster has come off. Gradually I can put some weight back on my foot and ankle.

'This is the start of a tough recovery but I am up to the challenge.

'Patience wasn't one of my best qualities at the start of my career but I am older now and more experienced. I will wait until it is right before I get the go-ahead to do more.

'I have never had a serious injury like this. I have had three months out twice before and that should stand me in good stead. You need to be patient to make sure you can come back stronger.'

Bouma also wished to take the opportunity to thank fans who had contacted him following the injury to wish him well.

'The letters that have come into my mailbox at Aston Villa have been amazing. I haven't been able to reply yet but there's been a lot of letters.

'I am getting massive amounts of support and I seem to get lots of mail every day. Things like 'Freddy I want you back soon'. That's a massive boost for me.'

Who doubts Bouma will be back stronger than ever before!

Win £1,000,000 every week with Man of the Match®

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.