TOM Clifford is keen to make up for lost time at Southend United.

The Shrimpers left-back has started the Shrimpers’ last two matches after recovering from the ankle injury he suffered during pre-season.

And Clifford is relishing his return to action.

“It’s a massive relief to be back and I’m relishing every moment of it,” said Clifford.

“Missing the first few months of the season was very frustrating for me and it was definitely a long four and a bit months to be doing nothing pretty much.

“But it’s almost like the last few months have made me even more keen to kick on now because I’ve missed quite a large part of the season so I now need to carry on and try and make it up for the rest of it.”

Clifford returned to the starting line-up for the 4-1 defeat at Notts County before playing the full 90 minutes of Saturday’s 2-1 win against Dorking Wanderers in the FA Trophy.

And Clifford has been encouraged by aspects of Blues’ performances.

“I think we have played some good stuff in the last few games,” said Clifford.

“Don’t get me wrong there’s still lots to improve on and we know that but I think we’re definitely making improvements.”

Blues, who sit just above the drop zone on goal difference, resume their National League campaign at Bromley on Sunday.

And Clifford is looking forward to the clash as he continues to work his way back to full fitness.

“I’m getting there fitness wise,” said the 22-year-old.

“I was doing a lot of running before I actually started training and I was always doing stuff after training to get my fitness back too.

“I feel like I’m getting fitter every game now which is good so I’m looking forward to Sunday and the rest of the season.”

But, having also seen the previous campaign hit by injury concerns, Clifford is eager to avoid any more setbacks.

“My hopes for the rest of the season are to try and stay injury free from now on and play as many games as I can.

“Hopefully I can help the team achieve what we should be doing as a group as well.”

The Shrimpers will be looking to do that with Kevin Maher in charge.

Maher was appointed Blues boss during Clifford’s injury lay-off.

But he is someone Clifford already knows well due to spell his in charge of the Shrimpers’ under 23s.

“I really enjoyed working with the gaffer when I was in the under 23’s and I think we had a good group,” said Clifford.

“He helped me personally a lot throughout his time here before and is continuing to do so now so I’m glad he is back.

We have definitely made improvements since all of the staff have come in too.”