Gavan Holohan discusses Hartlepool United injury woes, mistakes and his determination to make amends on his return

Despite missing a decent chunk of matches due to a back injury in recent weeks, the Irishman has netted six times in his last seven starts for Pools in all competitions.

And on his return to the Pools starting 11 against Barrow on Saturday, Holohan was back amongst the goals with a fine 25-yard strike at Victoria Park.

“I’m really pleased to come back with a goal and an assist because I was obviously in good form before the injury and it’s been frustrating being out,” admitted the 28-year-old.

“I was tearing my hair out because it was just a little niggly one with my back that just kept flaring up and wasn’t going away.

“Hopefully I’ve got on top of it now and I can kick on now for the rest of the season.”

Fresh from a brace at Ebbsfleet United, Holohan forced himself to play in the following game against Boreham Wood despite feeling some growing discomfort in his lower back.

It was a decision the midfielder would come to regret as he was substituted off before facing over a month on the sidelines.

“I was playing through it and it got to the stage where I think it was the Boreham Wood game was just a game too far for me,” Holohan continued.

“I didn’t feel right before that game either but I was selfish.

“I wanted to try and carry on the good form I was in but I probably shouldn’t have played because the team is more important.

“I felt like I let the lads down not only in that game but then being out injured as well so I’ve been chomping at the bit to make amends for that and hopefully I’ve done that.

“I suppose being injured like I was, being in good form then missing a few games makes you more determined to prove a point and try to pick up where you left off.”