NEWPORT'S Christian Malcolm has just one thing on his mind in 2008 and that is to have an injury-free season for the first time in four years.

The 27-year-old, who has been in South Africa as part of a UKA Training Camp for the Norwich Union GB & NI Team, has been plagued with a succession of injury and illnesses since he battled kidney failure to reach the 200m semi-final at the Athens Olympics.

Malcolm's Greek tragedy meant he missed out on a place in the gold-medal winning relay squad while two years later a torn hamstring put pay to his Commonwealth Games bid.

A five-week injury lay-off last summer saw Malcolm under-achieve at last year's AAA's British trials, before he recovered to take bronze in the 4x100m relay at the Osaka World Championships.

And with competition for a 200m berth at next summer's Beijing Games fiercer than ever Malcolm is looking to pressure Cardiff-based Tim Abeyie, Marlon Devonish and Chris Lambert, who all achieved the 2007 UK performance target time for the half-lap of 20.78secs.

"I've always believed that when I'm finally injury free I can run some fast times and show the selectors what I can do," said Malcolm.

"I've had so many negative thoughts but I've never thought of calling it a day. If there's a year I don't want to be injured then it's certainly this season, especially of what I suffered in Athens.

"I was in great shape before Athens but I believe I over-trained and that's why I was struck down with kidney failure in the 200m.

"Seeing the boys take 4x100m relay gold was one of the highest and lowest points of my career. I was so happy for the boys but also so gutted that I wasn't involved - I couldn't have been higher or lower at the same time.

"For the last three years I've been fit and had a good winter - it's just that I've been injured coming through the summer. I feel so fit and strong at present and that's what you want in Olympic year."

The Commonwealth Games 200m silver medallist hailed the contribution of his coach and former Olympic champion Linford Christie during his injury hell.

Although Malcolm admitted retirement plans had not crossed his mind - the Welsh sprinter revealed Christie had kept him going during some dark days.

"People see him as a stern character but he made sure I was having fun and being positive and that's what you've always got to do," added Malcolm.

"It's great working with Linford - he has helped me through so much in the last few years.

"Yes you have to be professional but having fun is the reason we all started athletics and Linford has kept me smiling through some dark days."

****According to research conducted by Loughborough University, milk aids recovery after exercise more effectively than water and isotonic drinks. For more information visit: www.milkrecoveryzone.com****