The Londoner missed the end of last season with a stress fracture and was criticised in some quarters, including by some in the Bulls management who openly doubted his commitment.

 

So, when the NBA season opens tomorrow against San Antonio Spurs at the United Center in Chicago, he has special incentive for doing well.

 

Deng said: "There was no way I could have come out and said anything that would have changed anyone's mind until I play.

 

"That's why I'm so excited for this season. I think it will shut a lot of people up.

 

"I couldn't play.

 

"I would have been stupid if I had said, 'You know what?

 

"'I'm just going to lace them up [my shoes] and play.'

 

"I probably would have missed this year if I did.

 

"I was really close to having surgery for a fractured tibia, which in some cases is career-ending.

 

"But I didn't want to take the criticism personally.

 

"I tried to be smart about it, tried to be true to myself. I know how hard I worked for this game."

 

The injury, which coincided with the first year of a six-year $71 million (£43 million) contract, also kept Deng out of the European Championships in Poland last month, where Britain made their first appearance since 1981.

 

Deng believes that once he gets a series of matches under his belt he will return to his top form.

 

He said: "I'm a rhythm guy.

 

"I need my rhythm.

 

"When I start missing practices, it really affects my rhythm.

 

"Some guys are able to sit out practices and show up at game time.

 

"I really need to get my practice in."

 

In 2006-07, Deng played all 82 of the Bulls games and averaged a career-high 18.8 points and 7.1 rebounds.

 

In the playoffs, his numbers increased to 22.2 and 8.7.

 

The next year, he missed 19 games to injuries.

 

Last season, he missed 33 regular-season games, as well as the thrilling playoff series against the Celtics.

 

Deng said: "I can't describe how hard it was to sit out and watch that playoff series.

 

"I don't think I'll ever erase that memory until I play again and enjoy it with the guys."

 

Deng has tried to shrug off the hurtful words of his critics.

 

He said: "Those people don't know me personally.

 

"I just have to wait for the season.

 

"I'm really excited.

 

"I'm determined and I'm focused."

 

 

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