Colchester United skipper Tommy Smith returned to action on Saturday afternoon, captaining the side to a 3-0 win over Doncaster Rovers at the JobServe Community Stadium.
The New Zealand international had been missing from the first three months of the season following a foot injury sustained in the U’s pre-season, but triumphantly returned for the emphatic win in North Essex.
And after coming through his first ninety minutes of the season unscathed, Smith has his sights set on more game time, starting with Wednesday’s Papa Johns Trophy clash.
“Since the injury in pre-season it’s been a long road back, but to mark it with three points and a clean sheet after so long out was brilliant.
“As captain of the club, you see the tough times we’re going through and there’s little you can do about it. You can be a voice, but you want to be out there affecting things on the pitch, but that’s part and parcel of football.
“The Papa Johns Trophy is an opportunity for every club to get to Wembley, so we’ll be taking it very seriously. We know Bristol Rovers are a good team, but we fancy ourselves at home against anyone and we’ll be giving it a right good go.
“Whoever is selected will know what they’re doing, and places are up for grabs. Through injury or suspension, everyone has to be ready to play at any given moment.”
Watch the full interview with Tommy Smith on the Col U TV pre-match show.
Tickets are available to purchase for the game against Bristol Rovers - click HERE to get yours.