Albion hitman Roman Bednar has explained how a spot of fishing helped him overcome his painful summer to be ready for the new season.

Bednar produced his best display of pre-season and bagged a goal against Real Mallorca at The Hawthorns on Saturday.

He insists he is now firing on all cylinders after a summer hernia operation – thanks to some rest and relaxation on the riverbank in his native Czech Republic.

He said: “I used a bit of experience this time and I did absolutely nothing. In the last couple of days I did a bit of running but until then I had a lot of rest.

“I did swimming and fishing and not much else. I thought maybe the physios wouldn’t agree with me and tell me I should have done something, but I was resting and I don’t feel a thing now.

“I am just happy that I stayed fit all through pre-season. I have run more than I ever have and I feel fit. I fish on the river in the Czech Republic.”

Bednar admitted his opening goal of pre-season came as a relief. He believes the clash with Real Mallorca was good preparation for the season ahead.

He said: “It was my first goal in pre-season and I don’t think I have scored a lot in training either. So for me it was good and for the team it was important as well. We didn’t want to lose and although we wanted really to win we fought back, so it was good.

“They were a good side. It was very difficult but we tried out a couple of formations and every player that the gaffer wanted to play played.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with Neil Clement but overall the game was a bonus and 1-1 against a very good side is a good result.

“Now we have one last week to make sure we are ready for the Arsenal game.”