Adam Marriott is delighted to be back in amongst the squad having finally recovered from a knee injury that has kept him out since January.
Originally it was believed that the striker would only be sidelined for around a month but complication after complication followed and he now sees the light at the end of the tunnel.
“It has been a really long journey to be fair but now I am back training with the boys, that is what I have been waiting to do all this time so I’m buzzing really.
“It was a bit of a weird one. In the warm-ups against Shrewsbury I noticed something was up with my knee and I alerted Paul (the physio), he gave me some painkillers and I got through the game, actually scoring a goal too.
“Afterwards I had surgery on it and it didn’t turn out to be as simple a process as we first thought so it has been a bit of a nightmare to be honest.
“I am back now though and just really thankful to have got to this stage.”
Injuries are a part of football but the mental resolve needed by those affected can often go unnoticed by many.
“It is tough, especially when you think you will be back by a certain date and it keeps getting put back. You just have to try and stay mentally strong as it is all a part of football.
“It is just about how you respond and hopefully when I am back on the pitch in a few weeks I will be better than ever.
“Paul has helped me through it the whole way and the new manager has come in and has shown me support. He understands the injury and just wants me back when I am 100% ready. The lads have been great too and everyone has been very supportive so I thank them for that.”
With the team struggling on the pitch, Marriott has had to watch from the sidelines and he says he just wants to get out there and help his teammates.
“There is only one way we can get out of it and that is by sticking together. I just want to do my bit and try help the lads and the club get up the league. No-one likes watching us get beat and it is tough from the side so I am really looking forward to my first minutes.
“I am not quite ready yet but I am feeling good and hopefully not far away from a return.”