Dunfermline: Kane Ritchie-Hosler opens up on injuries after return

The 21-year-old returned to playing action, as a second half substitute during Tuesday's home defeat to Airdrieonians, after three months out with a dislocated shoulder.

That, incredibly, was the popular winger's third serious injury of the season, having suffered ankle and knee problems, both of which required surgery, that had restricted him to just five appearances.

Ritchie-Hosler admitted to being "upset" when he was carried off during the fifth, a win over Arbroath in November, having worked hard to return to the squad from his previous two lay-offs.

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He needed an operation on his shoulder but, after taking part in non-contact training, a scan at Ross Hall Hospital in Glasgow, on Monday, gave him the all-clear to get back playing.

"It's obviously been a long road for me. I've had three different injuries, and it's been tough, but it's just good to be back out there," he explained.

"I can't really describe it. It was tough, obviously. I think if I'd just had one, and you know what's going to happen, you're out for a long period, it'd be a bit different, but to go through three different ones, just randomly, it's crazy. It has been tough mentally but it's just good to be out there I guess.

"With my fitness as well coming back, just getting a run again was good, definitely after the second one. The third one's just came out of nowhere I guess. It was something completely different to anything I think.

"I was just upset because I know how hard I'd worked to get back, and how much I'd done to get back out there on the pitch and be with the boys. Then, just to know you're going to be in the stands watching again, it was very tough."

The former Manchester City youngster, who joined the Pars on a permanent deal in the summer from Rangers, following an impressive loan spell, praised his "really supportive" manager, James McPake, for allowing him time away from the club during his recovery to spend time with his family.

"They've been through the bad times and the good times," Ritchie-Hosler continued.

"They just wanted me to be careful and stuff like that. They'll be happy just seeing me back out there, and hopefully get a smile. I'm smiling now, being back out there, I’ll have a smile on my face just being back out there playing again.

"Last year I felt like I played a part and, hopefully, for these next few games, in the latter stages, I can play a good part, and make an impact to just help the team.

"I felt good. Just being back out there, the fans were very supportive as they always are, and it's just great to be back out there playing again with the boys. It was great.

"I just need to be a bit more careful. I might've held back from some, but I think I still went out there and was pressing, trying to win the ball back, but of course I'm trying to be a bit more careful compared to the last few times, just to try and finish the season.

"It is difficult but I've got to get into it eventually. The more games I get, hopefully the more confident I get, and I can replicate the form I had last season."

A firm fans favourite, Ritchie-Hosler said was appreciative of the reception he received when he was sent on from the bench, and of the messages he's received during his time out.

"I think a few times they've given me good ovations, and just in general anyway, I know what it's like playing, especially on that side with the North West, but all the fans in general have given me a great ovation," he added.

"I'm very thankful for all the messages I've had throughout being injured. I've been really grateful."