Andy King believes the cloud of last season's Achilles injury may ultimately have had a silver lining.
The Leicester City midfielder suffered the injury early in the year and was forced to spend an extended spell on the sidelines.
However, the 23-year-old Wales international has now returned fit and firing and looks back to his best – which means a regular supply of goals from the middle of the park.
King has four to his name already this season, a more than useful contribution from a midfielder.
His most recent, a well-executed stoppage-time header, might not have been enough to salvage Saturday's game against Crystal Palace but it indicated his eye for goal remains as sharp as ever.
"I feel refreshed," said King, who has now made 14 appearances for City this season.
"It was probably the first time in a few years when I have been properly taken out because of an injury and have been able to look at things from the outside.
"It is frustrating being injured and you really get that hunger back.
"I am really enjoying my football this season and I have come back stronger. I did a lot of stuff when I was injured and it is benefiting my game."
King added that the time spent recovering from the ankle problem had also allowed him to have a closer look at the way he played.
"Sometimes you need to take that step back and analyse your game and I did that," he said.
"I am just trying to improve my own game now and that is benefiting the team."
There is no question that King's return to full fitness this term is a major positive for City.
And although Palace spoiled their perfect home start at the weekend, there is no doubt that the spirit being developed in the City camp at present is a potent one.
They may not have been at their best against the south Londoners but that did not stop them pushing a strong Eagles side to the final whistle. On another day, they could easily have taken something from the game.
"Enjoying the game comes when you are top of the table," King said.
"You are going to enjoy your football having won so many games here at the King Power Stadium.
"There is no reason why we shouldn't be high on confidence. That is reflecting in our performances."
