Kieffer Moore’s main worry during his ten weeks on the sidelines was missing out on another promotion push.
The Reds were informed by specialist doctors that their 18-goal top-scorer would miss the rest of the season after being knocked out at Gillingham on February 9. But he returned to the squad for the last two games, coming off the bench in the wins over Shrewsbury Town and Plymouth Argyle.
Moore transferred away from Forest Green Rovers and Rotherham United halfway through promotion seasons and feared he would once again miss out on playing for a team that went up.
Moore told the Chronicle: “The thing I was thinking about most was getting on the field to feel the atmosphere if we get promoted and to know that I have done my part. If we do get it, it would be unreal and I am just really thankful to be back.
“I remember hitting the floor and going to the hospital then travelling all the way back up in a taxi. The fans helped me massively, all the way down to little messages.”
Moore admitted the news that he would be out for the season was his ‘lowest point in football’ but is glad to be back. He said: “My head is really good. When the specialist gave me the all-clear, it was a delight. It is massively frustrating when you’re watching on and you can’t help the team.
“I am really proud of how the boys have done, they’ve been amazing. “ have trained very hard and it’s a relief to get back. The medical staff and the other players have kept me going and kept me sane. I feel really fit, maybe fitter than before the injury. I had to be 100 per cent clear I could be the same Kieffer on the pitch. I had no fear, won the ball and I felt very comfortable and exactly the same.”
There was a standing ovation at Oakwell on Friday when Moore returned to action following an 11-game absence. He said: “The reception was amazing. “I had goosebumps. I couldn’t have pictured that. I didn’t know the fans liked me that much.”
Moore – who could make his 50th league appearance for the club tomorrow – missed two excellent chances in Plymouth on Monday. He said: “I think that was a bit of rust but I am sure that will go and I will be back among the goals soon.”
