Brede Hangeland has admitted that the demands of Premier League football have left him in 'constant pain'.
Cottagers defender playing through pain
Brede Hangeland has admitted that the demands of Premier League football have left him in 'constant pain'.
The Norwegian centre-half has been pushed to breaking point over the past 12 months, taking in an incredible 60 games.
He is in desperate need of a rest but accepts that the rigours of life in England will deny him that opportunity any time soon after he played through the 0-0 draw with Tottenham at far from full fitness.
Hangeland is happy to keep putting himself through the pain barrier for the good of the cause, and has revealed that the Cottagers' medical staff have played an integral part in keeping him on the field.
"My body is in constant pain. Sixty games is an astonishing amount," he told
Dagbladet.no.
"It's okay for now because we have a team of professional doctors to look after us. I also have to look after myself, eating and drinking right and getting plenty of sleep. But I have been in constant pain throughout this time.
"I am probably at the limit that allows you to work. Some people would want us to play everyday, though, so it is finding the right balance."
Proven
Meanwhile, Hangeland's fellow Norwegian Erik Nevland insists he is happy with the way his season has gone so far.
The experienced striker has helped to fill the void created by Andy Johnson's ongoing injury problems and has proven to be a more then capable foil for the in-form Bobby Zamora.
"It has gone well until now," he told
Stavanger Aftenblad.
"I am pleased with my own displays. I understand that Bobby Zamora and Andy Johnson are the first choices, but I hope I have shown that the club can count on me."
