Arizona Cardinals linebacker Daryl Washington has revealed that he was "not surprised" to receive an instant recall to the starting lineup.
Washington has been told that he will start Sunday's match against the Carolina Panthers despite not having practised with the team for four weeks due to a suspension.
The 2012 Pro Bowler believes that he deserves to start due to his reputation, but admits that doubts has started to creep into his mind.
"I'm not surprised but sometimes you expect the unexpected. You never know what's going to happen in this league, but I think with what I've shown over the years it only makes sense," ESPN quotes Washington as saying. "I think I'll have to come back really strong."
The Cardinals have not been able to call upon Washington's services yet this season and head into Sunday's match with a 2-2 record.