Dean Leacock hopes to put last year's injury nightmare behind him and finally make an impression on Nigel Clough.
The 25-year-old last tasted first-team action back in early November when he limped off during the Carling Cup win at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Plenty has changed since then and Leacock, having been sidelined by a pelvis problem, is yet to play in front of the new gaffer.
But he took a full part in the Rams' return to pre-season training on Wednesday and looking forward to pushing for a return.
He revealed in an interview now being on RamsWorld: "Physically I'm OK but fitness-wise I'm a bit low after being out for eight months but that's what pre-season is for, to get you fit and ready for the new season.
"Touch wood the injury is all behind me so if I can get a good pre-season too I don't see why I shouldn't be pushing for a place.
"We have some friendlies coming up so I'll hope to be playing in them but I want to be pushing for a place on August 8 against Peterborough as that's the big one."
Nobody at the Withdean Stadium on that cold November evening could have expected Leacock's absence as he hobbled away along the running track shortly before the hour.
At first a damaged groin was suspected but as time ticked on the prognosis became pelvic problems.
Leacock was forced to watch on from the sidelines as Clough took over and his colleagues had the chance to shine in front of the new boss.
The Londoner admitted that this was a tough time.
"I thought it was my groin at first, and I went for scans and it then proved to be my pelvis.
"The operation I had seems to have done the trick though and hopefully, touch wood, I'll stay injury-free this season.
"It's been the hardest time of my life - waking up in so much pain, not being able to walk at times.
"But I've come through it and hopefully I'll be a lot stronger this season."
Now Leacock is looking forward to a run without any problems and the opportunity to stake his claim for a place in Clough's side.
"I have got confidence in my own ability and hopefully, if he gives me a chance in his side, I'll justify him putting me in," he said.
"I've not really worked with Nigel yet but the lads all seem to be buzzing after training.
"He wants to pass the ball about, which suits me, so hopefully he'll like what he sees and I'll be able to kick on."
Leacock added: "I couldn't wait to come in this morning. I was buzzing to see the lads, to see the new manager, and hopefully we're looking forward to some good times again."
