FIT-AGAIN Southend United midfielder Josh Wright is determined to make up for lost time after returning from the first real injury of his professional career.

Wright - who had been sidelined with a hamstring problem since the end of December - played the final three minutes in Saturday’s 3-1 win against Portsmouth at Roots Hall.

And the 28-year-old was happy to follow that up by scoring in an impressive hour long display to help Blues’ under-23 team beat MK Dons 5-0 this afternoon.

“It’s probably the first real injury I’ve ever had since being contracted to a professional club, so it was testing,” said Wright.

“It was very frustrating at times.

“It’s gruelling, you work very hard and think you’re nearly there, then suddenly you’re not.

“It takes time, but I got there in the end and hopefully that’s me back now.

“Playing football is what it’s all about and I really enjoyed being out there again.

“All the lads were fantastic and to get a positive result made it even better.”

Wright used the ball well and looked comfortable in the centre of the park.

And he was happy with how the game went.

“I had three aims before the game,” said Wright. “I wanted to make sure I got through it, I wanted to win and also wanted a goal, which was the icing on the cake.”

However, Wright knows it will be tough to break back into Blues’ first team with Chris Powell’s side unbeaten in five games.

“The boys have been on fire and long may that continue,” said Wright.

“It’s a group, a squad, a club and it’s not about any individuals but all I can do is keep working hard.

“I’m in and around the manager’s plans again and it’s up to me to keep working hard to give him a headache.”

But Wright - who trained alongside Powell at Charlton Athletic - has already been impressed by his new manager.

“The new gaffer has been absolutely top drawer,” said Wright.

“I knew exactly what he would be all about and he lifts places just by being there. He has a great voice and a great character and he’s fantastic on the training ground too, along with Damian Matthew and Kevin Keen.

“The place is buzzing and everyone has been lifted. I’ve really enjoyed it since being back and I can’t wait to keep pushing on.”