Midfielder Gary Liddle was thrilled to come through more than 90 minutes in Notts County’s goalless draw with Leyton Orient.
Liddle had been out of action since December with an ankle ligament injury but looked like he had never been away in the weekend’s game.
The County number four had been given the green light after coming through a behind-closed-doors game in midweek and is now looking forward to helping Notts stay in Sky Bet League 1.
“It was good to be back because it’s certainly been a long old slog getting fit again,” he said.
“What I must do is thank the physios, John Wilson, Becky Knight and the rest of the department for getting me back so quickly, which wasn’t really expected.
“It was a nice little surprise to be back on Saturday and to be part of a good performance and a decent little result for us.
“I felt good and obviously towards the game it’s all about mental tiredness more than anything.
“I certainly felt it but hopefully I’ll be able to recover in time and make myself available for Tuesday against MK Dons.
“I’ve hated it being on the sidelines because I’ve not been injured too many times during my career.
“This three-month lay-off is the longest time I’ve been out since I was 18 or 19, when I was out for a year with a back injury.
“It’s been tough watching, especially with the position we’re in, but we’ve got a run-in now against the teams in and around us and I’d like to think that I’m available for all of them now that I’m back fit.”
Notts are in action against the Dons on Tuesday night at Meadow Lane (7.45pm kick-off). For full ticket details, click here.