Charlie Austin had said he can't wait to make his return to Premier League action ahead of Southampton's crucial clash against West Ham on Saturday.
The 28-year-old has been out of action since being forced off during the 1-1 draw against Huddersfield Town with a hamstring injury back in December.
The setback came at a time when the striker had been in fine form, having scored five goals in seven games - including one against the Terriers that day - and the Saints have struggled for goals ever since he was sidelined.
Much has changed at St Mary's in the meantime, most notably the appointment of Mark Hughes as manager following the dismissal of Mauricio Pellegrino as well as the side sitting in the bottom three with eight games of the campaign still to play.
Next up is a trip to the London Stadium at the weekend and Austin has fired a warning to the Hammers.
“It’s good to have that light at the end of the tunnel and this is the last tick in the box – it’s great to be back with the lads,” he told the club's official website.
“All the hard work I’ve done with the physios and Bill (Styles, first team sports scientist) has paid off and hopefully I can stay fit until the end of the season.
“Now I’m back, we’ve got a big eight weeks and I’ll put all my energy into helping the team drive forward to stay in the Premier League.
“It’s pressure. Some people like being in those scenarios, some people hide from it.
“You’ve got to embrace it – as men and as footballers. We’re under a lot of pressure at the moment, don’t get me wrong, but we need to push forward.
“Being a big character that I am and part of this great team, I feel there’s enough character, talent and work ethic, and with the new coaching staff coming in with new ideas, it’s going to really help us.”
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