Back after a long-term injury, Josh Ruffels is hoping he can make an impression at City
Coventry City midfielder Josh Ruffels described his 11 months out injured as 'absolute torture' after the goalless draw with Derby County Under-21s.
The 19-year old suffered the groin injury last season and he was out of action for almost a year before returning to feature for the Under-21s this season.
Ruffels, who made appearances against Crystal Palace and Southampton last season, described being injured as a 'very lonely place'.
The City midfielder said: "It has been hard for me to get a look-in with the first team, especially after suffering the injuries I did.
"It was a problem with my groin but I would keep getting set-backs as well. It was absolute torture. It is really difficult as you see everyone else playing and you're inside. It is a lonely place to be.
"I was hoping to get some appearances this season but the injury kept me out for the start of the season so I was always catching up.
"I have done well to get back in 11 months actually because it is the sort of injury problem which has seen other players stay out for a few years.
"After getting rid of the injury, I am happy with the way I am playing and enjoying playing in the side."
Ruffels has featured in each one of the last four matches which has Lee Carsley's Under-21s side claim an impressive 10 points.
Now he is finally playing again, Ruffels is hoping his current form will help get him a new deal at City.
He continued: "It is a really good standard of football as some of the teams we have played against this year have some really good players.
"I think all of us has improved over the year and most of us are staking a claim for first team football considering the results we have had.
"I am hoping the manager (Steven Pressley) notices me and the way I've been playing. I am hoping I can get a new deal here because with the injury behind me, I feel I can really start to show what I can do.
"I know I have just got to keep working hard and improving with each game in order to be here next season."