DERBY County defender Dean Leacock is hoping his injury nightmare is over.

Leacock spent the last eight months on the sidelines and some mornings he could not walk due to the pain from a groin and pelvis problem.

He even, at times, had to phone in and say he could not make it to training.

Leacock has described it as his lowest point in football.

But now the 25-year-old centre-back has returned for pre-season training with the rest of the squad.

He is delighted and relieved to be back.

Leacock has not kicked a ball for the Rams since early November, when he limped out of the Carling Cup victory over Brighton at the Withdean Stadium.

Little did he, the club or supporters realise at the time how long he would be out.

"I didn't think it was serious – I just thought I'd pulled my groin," said Leacock.

"It shocked me how long it took to clear up.

"At one point, they said it could have been a year. It was quite serious.

"I was very concerned. There were certain times when I thought it wasn't getting any better.

"I was waking up some mornings and just couldn't walk. Sometimes I had to phone in and say I couldn't make it to training."

Scans eventually revealed a pelvis problem.

"Once we got down to it, I had to have another operation and now it is a lot better," said Leacock.

"The physios have done really well with me. Obviously, I still get little niggles from time to time but the operation seems to have done the trick.

"Touch wood, I'll stay injury free this season."

Leacock formed a promising partnership at centre-back with Martin Albrechtsen before injury struck.

Now he aims to impress manager Nigel Clough.

"It is brilliant to be back training with the lads again after eight months. It's a great feeling," said Leacock.

"It's going to be hard to get my fitness back but I am ready to work hard and, hopefully, come August 8, I will be in he starting 11.

"I am looking forward to working with the manager and his staff.

"I believe in my own ability. I'll go out and try my hardest and, hopefully, win a place in the team.

"It is a new season and I think it is going to be exciting times for everyone."