Weimann delighted to be back playing after knee injury

NOBODY came closer to scoring against Celtic than Bristol City’s Austrian running machine Andreas Weimann.

Callum O’Dowda glanced the post with a late looping header, but the 29-year-old former Villa striker’s volley against the inside of an upright in the 36th minute almost crowned the Robins’ official opening of the High Performance Centre on Wednesday night and Weimann’s return to action.

It may be a case of unfinished business for the Vienna-born player, after a cruel ACL injury ended his season after just seven games 10 months ago.

Speaking to the media after the game, the former Derby County and Aston Villa man confirmed his delight at being back playing.

“It felt great. Before the game I was a little bit nervous because it was my first game since October,” he said.

“When I was in it, I felt great. I think my rehab went as good as it could have, I feel really strong and the knee felt great.

“I feel really fit so I’m just happy to be back.”

Weimann also reflected on his recent new deal, after the versatile attacker recently signed up for another three years at the Ashton Gate club.

Other interest was rebuffed and there was some hard thought over what was best for the future.

“I’ve been here for three years now and I always said that I wanted to stay,” said Weimann. “Obviously it was a big decision for me because I am 30 next month. I was thinking that it might be my last long-term contract.

“I just needed to make sure it was right for everyone, for my family and me, and I was glad when I got the offer and I couldn’t wait to sign it then.”