Jobi McAnuff says missing out on playing football was the biggest frustration for him during the first three months of the season.

The experienced Orient midfielder had to wait until the end of November to make his first appearance of the season after being left in the wilderness at the request of the owner Francesco Becchetti.

But McAnuff was brought on as a substitute against York City and impressed during his first start of the campaign in Saturday’s goalless draw with Scunthorpe United.

When asked about what happened during his period away from the first team, McAnuff replied: “I’m not going to say anything. I’m obviously happy to be back here. What’s gone is gone and I just want to look forward now to being involved and playing some games to try to help the club achieve their goal.

“I can’t do anything about what’s gone. We’re in December now. I’m back on the pitch, there’s a lot of football to be played and I want to be a part of it.”

The former Reading and Watford midfielder is coming towards the twilight of his career and admits missing out on game time was the toughest aspect of his absence.

The 34-year-old said: “For me that’s the bottom line. I love playing football and always have. That’s probably why I’ve played the games I have because I want to be out there on a Saturday.

“Careers are short and I’m obviously getting on a bit age wise but I feel good. The legs are good and fitness wise I’ve been fortunate. I just want to play football.

“That’s all I want to do and that’s been the biggest frustration being at home on a Saturday or in the stand watching.

“That’s where I want to be on a Saturday afternoon so I’m just buzzing to get back out there.”

Ian Hendon was delighted to have McAnuff back in the side and believes it can only benefit the club.

The Orient head coach said: “It’s long overdue as well. I thought Jobi was fantastic out there. We played him in the hole first half and then late on in the second half he came out on the left.

“Jobi does what he does and I thought his commitment was there for everybody to see. I’m looking forward for him to play a big part for the rest of the season.”