IANIS HAGI has opened up on his struggles with injury as he prepares for a return to action in the new year.

The Romanian international has not featured for Rangers since January and underwent surgery on a knee issue before entering his recovery phase.

Some reports suggested that Hagi had faced knockbacks in his recovery, but the 23-year-old insists he bouncing back in the expected timeframe.

He has told of his mental struggles though and he is determined to show his worth when he returns to competitive action.

He told Rangers TV: “It’s so different to what you experience on the pitch. The emotions are definitely higher. They are twice as high as being on the pitch physically. I get why the fans get frustrated at times. I get why they always have high expectations of the club and the team. Look, it’s been amazing for the club getting to a European final and winning the Scottish Cup last season.

“This year, I think the team has been so unlucky with so many long-term injuries. It’s mixed feelings to be a fan but I’d definitely prefer to be on the pitch rather than on the sidelines.

"Now I’m good. I’m in a good place mentally and I think that’s the most important thing for me right now. Physically I’m growing every week. I can see progression and that’s always positive. I was growing every season into Rangers and I was enjoying my football so much. But in football you need only one second when everything can just stop for you.

“It’s been a tough one. A rollercoaster, mentally and physically. But I can see I’m close to my final destination. There’s no better feeling, especially to experience it with everyone around here, it’s twice as good.”

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