Defender Jean-Yves M'Voto came through 45 minutes unscathed on his return to action for Southend United's reserves at Ipswich Town yesterday.

The French centre-back, who has been out since September with a hip problem, played the opening 45 minutes in a 2-2 draw with the Tractor Boys.

And he was thrilled to be back in action.

"It had been very frustrating being out injured so I'm glad to be back again," said M'Voto, who is on loan with the Blues from Sunderland until the end of the season.

"My hip did feel a little bit stiff, which you would expect, but I've come through it OK and now it's up to the coach what happens next.

"We will just have to wait and see what happens this week now and if he wants me back quickly or if I've got more time."