JOE Skarz was thrilled to be back in action for Oxford United at the end of a “boring” few days spent proving his fitness after suffering concussion.

The left back returned to the starting line-up in the 1-1 draw at Scunthorpe United, a week after being knocked out in the victory against Coventry City.

Given the dangers of rushing back too quickly, players suffering concussion are now subject to specific rules, not just on when they can start playing again but also how much training is permitted.

Skarz fully understood the reasons behind the precautions, but it still proved a testing time for a player who prides himself on not missing any sessions.

He said: “I felt fine on Monday, but I was only allowed to do 15 minutes on a bike where your heart rate wasn’t allowed to get above 60 per cent.

“I hated that because I need to do more than 15 minutes now I’m getting a bit older.

“On Tuesday I was only allowed to do 45 minutes and then on Thursday I joined in training but I wasn’t allowed to do contact stuff.

“Friday was my first full day back, it’s a bit boring but we had to do it and tick every box.”

Skarz played his part as United came from behind to draw with the runaway leaders in Sky Bet League One.

It was only the side’s sixth point on their travels, but the defender believes there has not been much wrong with the away form.

He said: “We’ve conceded 15 goals away and this is our tenth game, so we’ve not been getting battered.

“This was a massive confidence booster to come to the leaders and get a point after going behind.”