MARK Molesley is hoping to steal a march on his rivals for a place in the Cherries midfield after taking his first steps on the comeback trail.

Molesley returned to action following a two-month absence when he made a brief substitute appearance during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Scunthorpe.

The 30-year-old, who has suffered more than his fair share of injuries since joining Cherries in October 2008, damaged his hamstring in the first minute of the 3-1 victory at Leyton Orient in September.

But with Lee Bradbury’s options limited due to injury to several players, Molesley could be in contention to start either tonight in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy or in the FA Cup first round clash with Gillingham in four days’ time.

Shaun MacDonald, Shaun Cooper, Joe Partington and Steven Gregory all remain doubts for the cup double header, while Jaime Peters and Wes Fogden are both unavailable to face the Gills.

Molesley told the Daily Echo: “It was great to get back on the pitch after another spell on the sidelines. The hamstring injury was another kick in the teeth but, hopefully, it is all behind me now.

“I felt it before the Orient game but was desperate to play. Maybe it was worse than I first thought but I had never pulled a hamstring before so didn’t really know what was what.

“I had a run of games at the start of the season and thought I was slowly getting somewhere. But I also had a problem with my toe and hadn’t been happy with it when I was playing.

“I am looking to push on and try to bring something to the team. I am desperate to play. This is the biggest squad we have had since I have been here and it is strong and competitive.

“When everybody is fit, competition for places is going to be fierce and that can only be good for the manager and the team.

“You have got to keep fit and stay on your game because there will be people champing at the bit for a chance. If one comes my way, I have got to make sure I grab it with both hands.

“I am as determined as ever. I feel I have missed out on so much and am hoping my hard work will eventually pay off.”