Cameron MacDonald: No need to rush my Livi return

Mar 17 2011 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

Cameron MacDonald: No need to rush my Livi return

LIVINGSTON crock Cammy MacDonald has admitted that his injury-ravaged season is probably over.

The 21-year-old has endured a torrid time with injuries this term and is currently working his way back after damaging tissue in his knee.

However, the Livi defender is remaining positive despite a frustrating season spent mainly on the sidelines and hasn’t given up all hope of making a surprise comeback before the league finishes up – although he concedes it is unlikely.

“Everywhere I go, I’m asked when will I be back and it has been a tough season for me.” said MacDonald. “But if this is the only injury-hit season I have, then I’ll glady take that.

“When you look at the injuries other players have had, like Celtic’s John Kennedy – who had to retire after injury – then you have to count yourself lucky.

“It is frustrating but these things are meant to test you and make you the player you are. I believe I will come back tougher.

“There is no accurate timeline on when I will be back. All I can do is wait and see.

“My recuperation been going well. I’m back on the bike and I have almost 100 per cent of movement back in my knee.

“It would be great if I could get back playing before the end of the season, however, the team are doing really well and I am signed on for next season, so I don’t need to rush back.

“I can come back when I’m ready. Every other injury I’ve ever had at Livingston, I’ve been rushed back to play, whereas now we have a big enough squad, I can come back when I’m fully healed next season.”

In MacDonald’s absence, right-back Craig Barr (right) has moved infield to fill the void left by his injury but Cammy reveals his madcap mate is now eyeing a striking slot.

“Craig is an enigma,” said MacDonald with a smile. “He is a funny lad and has been insisting that if we win the league, he is moving up front for a spell since he is doing a job out of position for us at centre-half.

“Nobody likes playing out of position but Craig has done really well. He is trying to earn a new deal and the fact he can play in a few positions comfortably can only help him.

“He has shown how good he is and has played in the SPL. To be honest, Craig is too good for this level – that is when he cuts out his nonsense.”

The Lions look to be marching straight towards a second successive championship and promotion but MacDonald is adamant no one in the camp will be taking their foot off the gas.

He added: “Last season, we dropped a few points in the run-in and almost stumbled over the line. So this year we have that winning mentality and determination to force it home and keep winning games.

“People say it but don’t believe it but when you get that winning feeling it makes such a difference.

“When you get that winning mentality it is a good thing and we have put in the hard work, so I think we deserve it too.”