Blackstock humbled by fan support

Last updated : 07 February 2011 By BBC Sport

Nottingham Forest striker Dexter Blackstock says he has been 'humbled' by the support he has received after his cruciate knee ligament injury.The 24-year-old, who had begun the season in fine form, could be out of action for a year after sustaining the injury at Cardiff in November.

Blackstock told BBC Radio Nottingham: "It has been very humbling how many messages of support I have had.

"It has been good for me to interact with fans and send messages back."

Blackstock was a second-half substitute in the 2-0 win at Cardiff on 20 November and was injured moments after scoring Forest's second goal.

"I have had hundreds of messages from not only Nottingham Forest fans, but fans of other clubs, even some Derby fans have wished me well," added Blackstock.

"It's coming along very well, I am off the crutches and am very happy with how it's gone.

"I have to say a great thanks to Andy Williams who did the operation. There was a big risk that I would have to have another operation if things didn't go well, but thankfully that's not the case.

"The risks of infection are out the window now and it's just a case of moving forward. I can do work on the bike, and I can do strength work and build the muscles up around the knee

"Also I can build my upper body strength that I haven't been able to do as much when I am playing, so hopefully I come back even stronger."

Blackstock continued: "There are no set targets yet as the ligaments take as long as they need to heal and it's not a case of rushing as it's very important your knee comes back right.

"But the surgeons are very confident the levels will be the same when I come back, if not stronger, due to the amount of work I have to put in. Hopefully I will come back a better player."

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport