Harry Lennon says he is fighting for his Charlton future.
Lennon only played five games last season after picking up a groin injury in November.
He is now hoping to return to full training in pre-season - and make an impression on Addicks boss Karl Robinson.
When asked whether his Charlton future is on the line with just one year left on his contract, Lennon, 22, told News Shopper: “Yeah, I’d say so.
“The main target now is to get back fit and I’m more than confident that when I do, I’ll force my way into the team and play games. I’m not too worried about that.
MORE: Charlton fans visit Roland Duchatelet’s home in latest trip to Belgium
“The manager has been good - he talks to me regularly. He’s told me that I’m in his plans when I get back fit. It’s all been positive.
“I was meant to be back in training at the end of March and then I broke down when I was running.
“I had an operation in the middle of April so I’m still on a bit of a recovery from that. But I feel much better now. I’d like to think I’ll be back to full training sometime in pre-season.”
Lennon enjoyed a breakthrough season in the 2015/16 campaign, featuring 28 times and playing well in a poor Charlton side that were relegated.
But an injury-ravaged year followed, and the defender revealed how tough it was to watch the Addicks from the sidelines.
Charlton boss Karl Robinson
Charlton finished 13th in their first season back in League One under Robinson, who Lennon is yet to play for.
Lennon added: “It’s definitely been one of my most difficult periods in football.
“I’ve had little niggles before, but this one has been my first big injury. It’s been frustrating because football is a big part of my life and it’s mentally tough.
“But I’ve still been in with the lads every day and you just try to stay positive and have a laugh around the place. That’s how you try to take your mind off it.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here