John Bostock is desperate to play his part for Rovers in the remaining weeks of the season after emerging from the longest injury-related absence of his career.
The midfielder suffered ankle ligament damage during November’s clash with Lincoln City and underwent surgery for the first time to fix the issue.
Bostock earned his first match minutes since his return as he played an hour of Rovers’ behind-closed-doors friendly with Huddersfield Town’s B team on Tuesday.
“It’s been a long four-and-a-half months,” the 30-year-old said.
“You can train as long as you like, as hard as you can, as much as you want but nothing can replicate playing games.
“It was good minutes for me in the tank and a good test so hopefully I can build on this now and improve.
“It was great for me to just be out there and I’m really happy to be back.
“We found out quite quickly I needed surgery - the first, and last, of my career.
“It’s a long journey and one where you just have to take each day as it comes.
“If you look too far forward you can get a bit overwhelmed with the process.
“I had plenty of time at home with my family and the physio has been great here.
“It’s the longest I’ve been out of football since I was a kid so it was a big test.”
While handling his recovery, Bostock admits it has been frustrating being sidelined and unable to contribute to Rovers’ efforts on the pitch.
But he is determined to make up for lost time as he makes his return to competitive action.
“It’s been a season like no other, especially in my career with ups and downs, surprises and injuries,” he said.
“It almost feels like everything that could go against us has gone against us.
“You want to be a part of that and contribute in some sort of way.
“I’ve just tried to be positive around the training ground and encourage the boys because everyone in our squad wants to be out of the position we’re in.
“We’ve got it all to play for in the remaining games.
“I want to help as much as I can.
“I do believe we’ve got more than enough quality and with the right results and right mentality, I do think we will finish the season strong.
“I’m just ready to play my part.”