Hilgers is eager to secure a regular spot in the Friesland team. "I'm top fit, feeling good and have confidence in my knee and condition," he said. "I'm ready to play every week." The 520-day layoff has given him ample time to reflect on his situation, including being left out of the team despite being fit. "I've watched a lot of football, had a lot of time to think," he added. "It was strange not being selected, and then getting injured. It's not nice watching from the sidelines for so long, but I'm happy to be at a new club and experiencing new things."