ORIENT striker Jabo Ibehre returned to action with a bang after scoring in the reserves 3-0 win over Wycombe on Tuesday.
The 24-year-old, who following Matthew Lockwood's summer departure is now the club's longest-serving player, is yet to kick a ball competitively during the campaign after sustaining an ankle injury over pre-season.
And while Ibehre knows it will be difficult to force his way into Martin Ling's table-topping side, he is certainly up for the challenge.
He said: "Of course it has been frustrating not playing this season, but I've been there before and mentally I've got the strength now to get through these setbacks.
"It was nice to get back out there and get a goal, although I did take a couple of knocks on the ankle during the game but I'm sure it will be ok.
"I'm really keen now to return and be part of the fantastic start to the season we have made.
"It will be hard to get back in I know that, because nothing good comes easy. But I've just got to get my head down now and fight for my place.
"This is a big season for me and hopefully I can be part of something special here again."
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