SOUTHEND United defender Harry Kyprianou is determined to get back on track after enduring close to two years of frustration.

The Shrimpers centre-back has made just one first team appearance since November 2018.

But, after playing 75 minutes on his return to action at Concord Rangers on Tuesday night, Kyprianou feels he is starting to regain full fitness.

“It’s the best I’ve felt in a long time,” said Kyprianou.

“It’s was good to be out there again because I’ve missed a lot of football..

“The result was disappointing but for me personally the positive was that I felt fit and strong.

“I was happy with that but obviously not the outcome of the game.”

Blues were beaten 3-0 by the Beach Boys but Kyprianou was among the more impressive performers for Mark Molesley’s side.

And the defender, who has been with the Shrimpers since 2015, wants his return to be the first of many matches this season.

“For me it’s about getting as many minutes as I can,” said Kyprianou.

“I want to help the team and the club when required to the very best of my ability.

“For me it’s about playing as much as I can after being out for a long time. With coronavirus as well I feel like I haven’t played in ages so I went to get back to my best and get some appearances.”

Kyprianou has made 25 appearances for the Shrimpers but suffered a ruptured Achilles against AFC Wimbledon in November 2018.

The defender, who can also play at left-back, returned to action against Gillingham back in February. But he was then forced back onto the sidelines after suffering a slight thigh problem while training during lockdown.

“I had the Achilles injury and had just got back up and running when Covid came along,” said Kyprianou.

“But I was training hard in the off season, potentially even too hard really.I think I overdid it and had a small issue with my quad. I missed the first 10 days of pre-season but I’m back now and did three or four months training before that so I feel in good shape.

“I really worked hard during lockdown and I’m feeling fit and strong again.”

And Kyprianou feels ready to line up against Gillingham in the first round of the Carabao Cup this weekend, if he is required.

“I’m ready if needed,” said the 23-year-old.

“It’s only been one game so it’s not ideal but I felt decent against Concord and if required I’ll be ready to play.”

Blues’ defeat at Concord concluded their pre-season campaign. But boss Molesley feels his side will learn from the setback.

“It’s a tough place to go and we’ve learnt some valuable lessons,” said Molesley.

“There was a youthful look to us and at times there was some naivety but as long as we can learn from that we can use this to get better.”