Jordan McGhee says the past 15 months have been the toughest of his career as he has struggled with injuries.

The 30-year-old managed only eight appearances last season after joining Motherwell and made his first outing of this term in Sunday's 2-0 defeat to former club Hearts.

Speaking before Wednesday's Premiership game at St Johnstone, McGhee said: "It's really difficult. It's the hardest time in my career so far.

"Obviously, I've been involved in relegation battles and stuff, and then it's a different kind of pressure, but now I wasn't able to do anything."

The former Dundee man is pleased to be back involved after what he calls two "freak" injuries.

"I'm delighted, it's been a long 15 months. My full career I've not been too bad injury wise, and since being here, I've just picked up two unfortunate injuries, two freak ones.

"I just cleared the ball against Carlisle, the guy's kicked my leg basically into space and I've done my hamstring."

McGhee was a frustrated spectator during the Steelmen's European adventure this season.

"It's difficult, the boys are travelling to Freiburg, playing in these stadiums, and you're up in the gym working hard, trying to get yourself back. That's the motivation, of course, and I'm hoping that's it behind me now.

"I'm grateful. I've got really good family at home that I can lean on, and they help me out massively as well as my friends in the dressing room, everyone at the club has been outstanding.

"I just need to try and keep myself fitting there, which I'm sure I will, and contribute on the park and repay the faith they've shown in me."