Brady raring to go

New England Patriots’ quarterback Tom Brady has dismissed any fears that he could miss his side’s AFC Championship game against the Baltimore Ravens after he was forced to sit out Wednesday’s practice with a left shoulder problem.

Brady missed the midweek practice to rest the problem but returned the following day as the team continued to run through their plays.

The 34-year-old used his day off productively by doing some extra research and has says he doesn’t feel like missing a day of practice will hinder him come Sunday. Those looking at the NFL odds may have their own views.

“It’s not the first practice I’ve missed over the years,” Brady said. “Coming off a game on Saturday or Sunday, you’re just doing everything you can to be prepared.

“When Coach [Bill Belichick] feels it’s best to do other things to get yourself ready, that’s what you do. You can still use all that time very wisely. You’re not lounging around taking naps or anything like that. “You’re just putting in extra work and make sure you’re getting prepared.”

Brady returned to full practice on Thursday and looked unaffected by his problem. Wearing light shoulder pads, he took part in the whole session which was held outdoors in front of the team’s fans. Those looking ahead to Betfair Super Bowl 2012 should bear this in mind.

The 2x Super Bowl MVP says he and his teammates are expecting a tough game against the Ravens after their previous encounters this season.”I just missed practice, that’s all,” Brady said.

“Not much more than that, really. We’re facing a great team, great challenges — certainly the best team we’ve faced all year. Everyone needs to be at full strength, though. It’s going to be a very physical, tough, hard-nosed game. We need everyone at full strength.”