Ex-Arsenal man returned to starting line-up after injury

ABU OGOGO was one of the few players on either side not to be too downbeat with the prospect of an FA Cup replay against Leyton Orient.

The right back, who returned to the side on Saturday after two months out with a hamstring injury, is just keen to make up for lost time by playing as many games as possible.

Ogogo, who turned 21 last Wednesday, was given a present by his manager in the form of a starting role in defence and played the full 90 minutes.

Former Tottenham Hotspur trainee Phil Ifil has played every game in his absence and had not looked out of place.

However, the 23-year-old, who played more than 50 games for Colchester United, was dropped from the squad on Saturday as John Still confirmed who he views as his first choice.

“Tired!” laughed Ogogo, when asked how he felt after completing his first game back.

“ I started to get a little bit of cramp around the 75th minute and I feel a little bit tired, but apart from that I’m alright. The hamstring is fine.”

The only low of the day for the ex-Arsenal man were the missed opportunities.

“There was a 10-minute spell in the first half where we were on top of them and I think if could have taken our chances we would have wrapped the game up, but it’s just unfortunate.

“It was a little bit scrappy and more of a battle as neither side could really impose their game.

“We’re a little bit disappointed with a draw as we want to win every game, but it’s better than losing.”

Having given the professional response, as his focus shifted to the prospect of the replay, Ogogo could not help but break out into a broad smile.

“I just want to play football,” he said. “So I’m looking forward to it.”