Exeter City midfielder Reece Cole has expressed his determination to overcome past frustrations and make a significant impact following his recent return from injury. After an extended period on the sidelines, Cole made his comeback for the U21s on Monday in their final Premier League Cup group stage game.

The 26-year-old played for 45 minutes in the 2-2 as the young Grecians ended top of the group and stayed unbeaten as they booked a home knockout tie. It was his first action in six weeks and came through it unscathed.

After penning a contract extension in the summer and coming through a tough pre-season, the 26-year-old looked like being a key figure for the Grecians this season, starting their first four matches of the season. But having only made 13 appearances for City this season, it has been a frustrating season interrupted by three separate injuries and an illness.

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Cole hasn’t featured for the senior team since a substitute appearance on December 21 at Burton Albion. His last start was back on November 2 in the FA Cup first round. But fit again, he is hopeful his injury issues are behind him, and he will be ready for the Grecians’ FA Cup tie with Nottingham Forest – and then the 17 game run-in to ensure League One survival.

"It was good to be back out there and it was an enjoyable 45 minutes,” he said after Monday’s game. “We started alright but then gift two sloppy goals away which could have been prevented. It was a frustrating night for the group, we wanted to go six from six, but unfortunately we haven’t done that.”

Cole's journey back to fitness has been challenging, but he remains optimistic about his role in the team's future. He emphasized the importance of his recent return, stating: "It was massive. I had it in my head this was the one I was aiming for. Everything has gone well and I felt good tonight so I hope I can be ready."

In previous recoveries, Cole acknowledged that he may have not taken the perfect approach, leading to setbacks. This time, however, he has taken a more measured approach.

"I have said it too many times coming back from injury,” he added. “Perhaps I done some things that I shouldn't have done during my recovery, but this time I’ve done everything I can and ticked every box, so I want to get as much training and fitness to be in the squad."

Watching from the stands has been a source of frustration for Cole as City have just picked up one point from the last 24, and just 10 from the last 16 games, as from sitting comfortably in mid-table, Gary Caldwell’s side are looking over their shoulders at the relegation zone.

But he remains focused on contributing to the team's success: "It is frustrating sitting in the stand and watching and would do anything to be out with the boys. It has been a tough time but we have plenty of football to play, are only 12 points off the play-offs, so a couple of wins and we are looking up again."