MIKE McGrath will be hoping for a league starting place for the first time in over five months when Hereford host Chesham United this afternoon.

The 32-year-old midfielder has been out of action with an ankle injury since the FA Trophy first qualifying round match against Weymouth on October 28.

McGrath made a long awaited return to action during Hereford's 7-0 victory over Ewyas Harold in the Herefordshire FA County Cup and has been left on the bench in the two previous league games.

"It's been five months so it's good to get back playing but it was prolonged as I was due to play in the original Ewyas Harold fixture a month ago which was off, said McGrath.

"I went to Studley to get a few games and their games were off so it has taken a bit longer than I expected but it's nice to be back. But it gave me that bit more time to keep training and make sure it was right, maybe that extra month was needed and now it's as strong as it can be.

"It's obviously very frustrating to get injured after doing so well before the FA Cup game (against Eastleigh) but I've kept positive and been training really hard while I was out because I knew if I came back and wasn't right then the season would be done.

"I've done enough to keep myself in shape although I will still be getting my match fitness. Studley was interesting and it was just a case of running around the pitch and getting match situations. The level didn't really matter it was just a case of getting that confidence going into tackles and the things I need to do for Hereford.

"Sometimes it can be psychological when you come back from injury especially an ankle injury like striking the ball and going in for tackles you can be a little bit hesitant. I played Tuesday and Saturday for 90 minutes and felt good.

With six league games left going into today's game Hereford know that four victories will secure them promotion and the title.

McGrath feels he is now fit enough to help the Bulls over the finish line.

"The thing in my mind when I was out was returning to Hereford, I've just been constantly training in the gym and the first few months I couldn't do much on my feet so working on my strength and doing what I can do," McGrath added.

"It's tedious stuff really recovering from an injury that I had, it's really boring stuff like balancing and stuff with bands but I've done the hard work and enough to not let it re-occur.

"I think I've shown that my ankle is right and feels good."

Chesham United, nicknamed the Generals, saw any play-off dreams over after a 2-1 defeat at Slough Town on Monday.