Bolton Wanderers midfielder Stuart Holden insists his latest injury setback will not stop him from returning better than ever.
The former Houston Dynamo star was felled in a match against Manchester United in March which injured his knee, ruling him out for up to six months.
But 25-year old Holden is no stranger to injury after having his leg broken last season and says he will bounce back by using his mental strength and willingness to play again at the top level.
"How I am mentally is the most important part. My mind is strong. I always persevere," Holden told the NY Post.
"I've been dealing with injuries since I was 17. This is not something that will stop me.
"Now I am thinking ahead to the future, not the past," he added. "In three weeks, I will be back at the gym to start getting back into shape and hopefully do some field work after that."
And Holden made it clear that getting back to full fitness so he can resume national team duties is a major goal.
"The National Team is always a big priority for me. I want to be an important player for the National Team and hope to make an impact. When I am fit, I do want to return," he said.
"The Gold Cup is very important. Originally, I was hoping to play in it. Now, I'll be watching and I hope they win it so that we can play at the Confederations Cup."
