November 2 2010

Darren Ambrose

Crystal Palace talisman DARREN AMBROSE admits he is thrilled to be back playing again.

AMBROSE, 26, made his first appearance since August in Palace's 3-0 loss at home to Swansea on Saturday.

Last season's top scorer had been sidelined with a small leg fracture but came through a midweek reserve game without any problems and has his sights on starting at Middlesbrough this weekend.

"The injury was so frustrating," he told the Advertiser. "For it to happen just after pre-season was a nightmare because I’ve lost a lot of the fitness I’d built up.

"But hopefully that’s all behind me now. I’m still getting a bit of pain after I’ve played, but I’m told that’s normal.

"I’m desperate to play a part up at Middlesbrough on Saturday, whether that’s off the bench or from the start is up to the manager.

"But whatever it is I’ll be ready. I’m delighted to be back playing football again and I’m desperate to help the team to start picking up some results."