Surprise starter Carl Rodgers admitted he was delighted to be back in the AFC Telford United starting XI after playing his part in the Bucks’ 1-1 draw with Stockport County.

And the midfielder hopes he has now done enough to convince Bucks boss Andy Sinton of a regular place in the squad.

Sinton has been openly critical of Rodgers, who missed the first two weeks of pre-season training to go on holiday, but the 26-year-old believes he has put all that behind him after making his first appearance of the season.

“Andy said to me that he didn’t think I was fit enough because I haven’t played any games,” said Rogers.

“Hopefully I’ve proved that I am fit enough and I think I did all right. It’s down to him to see whether he agreed with me but hopefully he will.

“I missed the first couple of weeks of pre-season when I was on holiday. Then I came back and split my eye open and then picked up a little calf injury

“It’s been frustrating for myself as well as for Andy. I’ve come back and I’ve worked hard and he’s given me another chance hopefully I’ve taken that chance.”

And Telford boss Andy Sinton is sure Rodgers has a big part to play over the next few months. “I’ve been waiting to get Bruno in,” he said,

“People asked questions every week as to where he is and that has been highlighted but you see how valuable he is in the role we play him.”

Sean Newton’s penalty gave Telford the lead against Stockport only for Antonio German to level just three minutes later.

That left Sinton pleased with the point, and the attitude of Newton, who converted from the spot a week after missing a last minute penalty at Southport.

By ALEX JAMES