JOSH Vela was banging on the door asking for a first team return from the moment he stepped back on to the training ground.

Back in contention after two months out with damaged ankle ligaments, the midfielder returned to Lostock just before the international break.

And Phil Parkinson admits it is a tough task holding him back from the starting line-up as his side prepares to face Sheffield Wednesday this afternoon.

“Josh hasn’t played since he got the injury on the opening day of the season against Leeds United but I’ve said all along, if anyone was going to fast-track himself to get back and play it would be Josh,” he said.

“He is a natural competitor, a real winner and as soon as he came back in he was champing at the bit to get playing again.

“In the last couple of weeks of his rehab he was banging on the door saying he wanted to step up his training. He’s got stronger each and every day.”

Parkinson built his midfield around Vela last season and feels his return to the side gives him the tactical flexibility he has been lacking.

“On day one with Josh I said it was the time he needed to start to fulfil his potential, and to be fair, he did.,” he said. “At times he was outstanding for us and he’s got good quality in the final third and that’s what wins football games.

“He showed time and time again that his final pass and the final finish - he’s got the calmness you need.

“He has got that winning mentality and hopefully he can play some role at the weekend.”