Werder Bremen's Nigeria international defender Felix Agu celebrated his long-awaited return to competitive football on Saturday, following more than four months out due to injury.

Despite Bremen’s 0-1 defeat to Freiburg, the 26-year-old expressed relief and joy at being back on the pitch.

“It was tough because it became clear relatively quickly that it would take longer again. Especially with the surgery, I was then stuck in that shoe, on crutches, for six weeks. I couldn't do much. That was a really hard time,” Agu told Deich Stube, reflecting on his recovery from a syndesmosis injury sustained on the sixth matchday after an opposing player fell awkwardly on his ankle during Bremen’s home game against FC St. Pauli.

“I’m really happy that it’s all over now and I can be back on the pitch and have fun,” he added.

Bremen’s sporting situation, however, remains challenging. The club has endured an eleven-game winless streak, leaving them deep in the relegation zone and morale under considerable pressure.

However, Agu emphasized the intensity within the squad during training sessions, particularly following recent changes in coaching staff.

“There was a lot of intensity in training, we had some good routines. Basically, what you expect after a coaching change, because everyone senses their opportunity and gives it their all,” Agu said after the Freiburg defeat.

He admitted that while the team’s training energy was noticeable, translating it into match performance remains a work in progress.

“I actually thought it would carry over even more into the game, but then you probably also see that the belief has to come back first – and we have to work hard for that,” he explained.

Agu’s return is a boost for Werder Bremen, providing experience and stability in a defensive line that has struggled amid the club’s ongoing sporting crisis.

While the result against Freiburg was disappointing, the defender’s comeback offers a glimpse of positivity for the team and its supporters, as they seek to navigate a difficult period in the Bundesliga.

Wale Adejumo