'I thought I was untouchable and would never lose again - but sport is brutal'

One moment that is very much in his sights is the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow - an event he describes as a "massive priority" in a spell that also includes the European Championships and the new World Athletics Ultimate Championship.

Kerr's travails at the worlds prevented him being pre-selected to represent Scotland in the mile alongside Jake Wightman and Neil Gourley, but his place is likely to be confirmed soon.

At the age of 28, and off the back of that calf injury, he acknowledges that the schedule is gruelling, but it is one he is ready to embrace.

"People roast me for under-racing but my goal is to run all the big championships," Kerr said. "I want to race at home as much as possible, that's the most important thing for me.

"I'm 28 years old and I feel in the best place, physically and mentally, that I've ever been in during my career.

"I've also got some pretty awesome experience behind me to continue to take some large shots at these big medals."