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After 200 days on the sidelines, Robben returned in style for Bayern on Matchday 4 with a goal in their 3-0 win over Hertha Berlin. - © © imago / Lackovic
After 200 days on the sidelines, Robben returned in style for Bayern on Matchday 4 with a goal in their 3-0 win over Hertha Berlin. - © © imago / Lackovic

Arjen Robben reflects on 'emotional' return

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200 days after his last competitive appearance for FC Bayern München, Arjen Robben was back on Wednesday night doing what he does best: menacing defences and scoring goals.

It was another successful comeback from injury for the Dutchman who, according to goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, "always scores a goal when he returns". His latest break dates back to March, when a groin injury curtailed his 2015/16 season. In mid-July, the 32-year-old's comeback attempt ended with an aggravation of the injury in a friendly against SV Lippstadt and Robben was understandably emotional as he recounted his latest return to action on Matchday 4.

Question: Arjen Robben, how did this comeback feel?

Arjen Robben: It was a very nice moment for me when I came back onto the field. The fans' reaction was incredible. I've got to thank them from the bottom of my heart because this support really does me a lot of good.

Watch: Carlo Ancelotti and Franck Ribery pay tribute to Robben after his return:

Question: The whole stadium got to their feet when you came on – what were your thoughts at that moment?

Robben: It was an emotional moment and everything flashes through your mind again about what I have been through to get back here. This was a reward for my hard work. It couldn't get any better.

Question: It did, because you then scored a goal…

Robben: That was an extra reward on top. It was a beautiful pass from Thiago, who laid the ball off for me. I just struck it well and that rounded off the night nicely for me.

- © gettyimages / Adam Pretty

"After this latest injury, I really analysed things and looked at what I could change and improve to make everything really perfect. We've done that." Arjen Robben

Question: What did you make of your opponents' performance?

Robben: Berlin have won their first three games of the season and, at times, they were able to show just why. They were dangerous and I expect them to continue challenging up at the top this season.

Question: How do you feel physically – you've got Hamburger SV at the weekend and then Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. Are you ready for 90 minutes yet?

Robben: It's important that we are sensible with me. I've been out for almost six months, because Lippstadt doesn't really count. My last official game was in March and so it's really, really important that I build myself back up well and not too quickly. I think we've got intelligent people at the club, though.