Jimmy Smith admitted that missing out on the start of the season has been difficult to deal with - but he emphasised that he was delighted to be back training with the Reds.
The midfielder began fitness work on the training ground with the side on Thursday afternoon, and he revealed that the injury he had picked up was a long-standing one from last season.
"It's obviously been a frustrating time for me," he told iFollow Crawley.
"I sort of played on with an injury I picked up towards the end of last season for about a month, because at the time we still weren't safe and I felt I had a duty as captain to help us get over the line.
"I worked hard over summer but when we came back for pre-season I still felt that something still wasn't quite right."
"I pulled my thigh and had a grade three tear," he continued.
"I had scans and they told me that I didn't need an operation, but that I just needed to strengthen the leg."
That news meant that the midfielder spent a considerable amount of time in the capital working on being back as soon as possible.
He revealed that the decision to see a specialist was down to personnel at the club - something he was very grateful for.
"I've been seeing a specialist in London and doing double sessions with them - something that both the owners and the manager sorted for me so I can't thank them enough.
"I've been travelling to Harley Street every morning and had six hour days.
"I've been keeping msyelf fit and I was back in with the group today (Thursday) and I'm just pleased to be back involved."
iFollow Crawley subscribers can watch the full interview above - and fans can sign up to the service for free by clicking here.
