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Conor Grant looking to make up for lost time

Conor Grant's progress towards Everton's first-team squad was put on hold when he sustained a back injury that prevented him from playing for four months of the season just ended.

Last summer, the 19-year-old was handed the chance to link up with the senior squad, coming off the bench for Roberto Martinez's first friendly game in charge against Austria Vienna.

That gave the young midfielder hope for further opportunities to progress during the 2013-14 season, but he sustained an injury to his back sustained in November that sidelined him for four months. Grant returned to action last month for the Under-21s' final six games of the campaign as he regained full fitness following a frustrating period on the sidelines.

“The last six months have been a frustrating time, but I'm just going to use it as motivation and come back stronger next season,” he said in the Echo.

“For the first four weeks, I couldn't do anything at all. That was something new to me because all my life I've been used to being on the go all the time. It was a surprise and I had to take it in my stride and aim to bounce back.

“It's a big year for me now and I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully I can play more of a part in pre-season and get a bit of game time and prove what I can do.

“Conor McAleny broke his leg and a few of the first-team lads also had long-term injuries. You're pretty much with them day-in, day-out and you've got to pull through together. You know the end of the road will come so you need to be positive.

“The coaches and physios were brilliant. I've had top treatment and motivation and my family and mates have been superb. It's a low time — no one likes to be injured. Hopefully that's in the past.”

"I'm an Evertonian so I'm delighted we're in Europe, but as a player that hopefully gives me and the other lads a chance to get game time. You want any chance that can come. It's a great competition to be in and I'm sure all the lads are ready.

“I'll have a few weeks off but, as soon as I'm back from my holiday, I'll hit the ground running and build up. You can't have too long off because you've got to keep the legs ticking over and trying to improve.

“The rewards are there and they're so great. For staying disciplined, to get the chance to play for Everton — it's not even a question, you just do it.

“It'd be a dream come true [to make my debut]. All my family are Blues. My mum was a Red, but I think she's converted now. Hopefully I can push on and take any chance.”

Quotes sourced from Liverpool Echo

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