Ekstrand Ready To Prove His Fitness

Joel Ekstrand is ready to reignite his career after an injury-ravaged year-and-a-half.

The Sweden international signed a one-year deal with City after more than a month on trial with the club.

Former Watford man Ekstrand suffered cruciate ligament injury in March 2015 and now fully recovered, is out to show his capabilities in the Sky Bet Championship.“I’m very happy it’s finally done,” he told Bristol City Player HD.

 "I’ve enjoyed the time I’ve had training here and now I’m looking forward to playing and giving it all for the club.

"There’s been a lot of talk about my injury and I've had no problem coming here and showing that I’m fit, showing that I’m good and I move the same as I’ve done before.

"I feel 100 per cent fit. Obviously I haven’t played a competitive game for a while but i think if I get the opportunity I’ll adapt pretty quickly coming back to that stage.

"I train at 100 per cent and have done for a long while so I feel confident and I just need the chance to show it now.

"I think this is a very good option for me to help the club and the club to help me to get my career going again, so I’m delighted and I’ll do my very best for the club.”

Ekstrand became City’s 13th signing of the summer and follows fellow Swedish recruit Gustav Engvall through the door at Ashton Gate.

The duo, who both have two caps for Sweden, haven’t crosses paths before but Ekstrand is willing to help the youngster settle into his new surroundings.

He said: "We didn’t know each other before but it’s always good to have someone from the same place as you.

“I'm a bit older and remember when I went abroad for the first time at his age, so I will try and help him and show him the way.”

Ekstrand could feature for the first time in City’s match against Rotherham United at New York Stadium on Saturday (3pm).

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