Peterborough defender Shane Blackett hopes to put last season's injury problems firmly behind him.

The 25-year-old missed a large part of the 2007/08 campaign through a knee injury but has come back to pre-season in fine shape.

Blackett is keen to repay the faith manager Darren Ferguson has shown in him when the season kicks off in August.

He told the club's official website: "The manager stated it was like signing a new player with my return to fitness and that is how it feels for me too - I hope I can add to the team and bring something different.

"I feel like I have something to prove after missing so many matches last season.

"I know it was not my fault as you cannot legislate for injuries but I am using that disappointment as my motivation so I am sure we can make a positive beginning to the new campaign."