It’s been a tough six months for fleet-footed midfielder Allen Christensen but it seems there is finally light at the end of the tunnel, with the emerging leader looking towards a return to main training.

Christensen underwent surgery in February to correct pain he was experiencing in both his back and leg that was associated with a lumbar disc injury.

“I had hip surgery in October then when I started running again my back started to flare up. I had numbness and pins and needles down my left leg so we went down the surgery road,” Christensen said.

Geelong’s General Manager of Football Neil Balme said although it was a set back in the short-term, the surgery was necessary for Christensen to play to his full potential.

“The surgery should ensure the issue is resolved and he will be able to move and play freely,” Balme said.

Earlier today the young Cat spoke about his rehabilitation journey and the challenges associated with being sidelined for an extended period of time.

“Mentally it can get a bit hard. We’re pretty lucky at this club though, we’ve got a great support system, so it hasn’t been too bad,” Christensen said.

Christensen has played 57 games since debuting in 2011, and has played in all of the Cats seven finals in that period. Despite some inconsistency, he had a career best year in 2013 with some impressive performances, including 36 possessions against Fremantle in Round 14.

Nathan Vardy (knee) and Daniel Menzel (knee) have also been out of action due to long-term injuries. Christensen admitted it’s been good to have some company in the gym.

“Having (Vardy and Menzel) around has been really good. When you’re injured you’re by yourself a lot, so it’s been good to have them around. It also makes you push yourself harder,” Christensen said.

The dynamic Cat isn’t far off returning to main training and is optimistic about donning the hoops in the near future.

“I’ve been running for about 3 weeks now and I’m starting to do some pretty heavy preseason type training.”

“I’m probably only a week or two away from training with the other guys and about 6 -7 weeks away from playing.”

“Hopefully things stay positive and I’m back out there pretty quickly,” Christensen said.