Recently by Andy Walker

STEPHEN Wright's return to fitness couldn't come at a better time for Coventry City.

Criticised for complacency in their recent 2-0 defeat by Crystal Palace at the Ricoh Arena just days after beating second placed Birmingham away from home, the Sky Blues youthful looking squad appears to be lacking experience in their ranks to help the team dig in when the going gets tough.

Manager Chris Coleman is actively scouring the loan market for suitable leaders, but defender Wright might just provide the influence that was sadly lacking in that dismal display against the Eagles.

"There are only five or six of us in the squad aged 28 or over so maybe we need a bit more experience," said the 28-year-old right-back who has been out for almost three months with a partial tear of his left Achilles.

But after coming through 65 minutes of his second reserve game - a 2-1 defeat at Wolves - and the 1-0 away win at Sheffield Wednesday, the former Liverpool player can finally see light at the end of the tunnel.

"It's been a nightmare to be honest and the worst injury I have ever had," he said.

"I joined the club for a fresh start and it has been frustrating, especially when I have been unable to help the lads out.

''It came at the worst possible time for me but I am getting closer and hopefully I can make the squad in the next week or two."

Wright signed for City on a free transfer from Sunderland in the summer, bringing an end to five years in the North-east.

Although surplus to requirements at the Stadium of Light, the full-back put himself in the shop window with an impressive three-month loan spell with Stoke last season where he helped pave the way for the Potters' promotion to the Premier League.