Southampton defender Michael Svensson says he always believed he would return from a career-threatening knee injury.

The 32-year-old made his first appearance for the Saints since November 2005 in a friendly against Winchester City on Saturday.

The Swede, who is out of contract, has undergone four operations and is now attempting to earn a new deal at St Mary's.

"I always tried to stay positive," he told BBC Radio Solent. "I've done all I can do to get back and play football.

"I had a serious injury to my knee and I've been out for many years, but I had an operation in May last year and I've been on schedule all the way, really."