Young keeper Jack Ruddy believes that he is heading into the New Year with in a stronger position than when he signed for Wolves due to the positive mindset he has kept whilst he has been injured.
When he joined Wolves in the summer from League One side Bury, the Scotsman had tendonitis, which cleared up after some work in the gym, but within two weeks of returning to training he pulled his left quad.
However, Ruddy, now set to make his first appearance for the Under-23s at Middlesbrough this evening, has highlighted that his mindset was what has driven him through his time on the sidelines.
“Being injured, it does set you back mentally but you just need to have a positive mindset,” says the 19-year-old.
“There is absolutely no point sulking about it, you just need to keep going because that is how it is in football.
“You get setbacks but you just need to continue with your own work.
“If you sulk and sit around then it is not going to help you at all so you just need to get on with it and do your rehab to the best of your ability until you are in the best position possible for when you return.”
And speaking of his return, Ruddy hopes to be in contention for a sustained run in the under 23’s and he admitted that he can’t wait to get back out there.
“I can’t wait if I am being honest with you,” he says.
“I have been out for so long, I haven’t played a game, but I got back into training by the end of the year so I feel like I am starting to progress more.
“Being back and ready to play is a real boost for myself.
“It is quite hard being stuck in the gym looking out the window watching all the lads play games and train together but I am really looking forward to getting stuck in again with everyone.”
With a return in store, Ruddy is also hoping that he can also cement a place in the Scotland under 21’s side, something which he feels would be a great achievement.
“I really want to cement my spot as the number one goalkeeper for Scotland’s Under 21’s team,” he says.
“I have been in the provisional squad twice but unfortunately I have been injured.
“I obviously want to do well here but I would really like to get the number one shirt for the national side as well.
“It really is an achievement and it gives you a sense of pride as well.”
