But the centre back was delighted to get a 20 minute run out in Tuesday's low key West Riding Cup defeat at Wakefield and is now eagerly relishing a full return to the ranks and is hopeful of making the starting line up for Saturday's crucial Unibond Division One North clash at Curzon Ashton.

"We were a bit short against Wakefield and I think it was a last minute decision by the manager, but it was great to get 20 minutes under my belt," said the former York man.

"When he sent me on, the boss told me just to go steady and keep out of the way of any trouble and to avoid any dangerous tackles and make sure I don't get a whack on the injury.

"I think we are looking at Saturday and the manager wants me to play so hopefully everything will be OK for that.

"It's been a nightmare to be sitting it out while the team have got going and started playing really well.

"You can't fault the lads who have played while I have been out because they have done a great job but it is just that it has been frustrating not being able to be a part of it."

Barras has been out for four weeks due to a shoulder injury which ironically enough he picked up in the League Cup win over Wakefield at the Shay.

But he came through Tuesday's brief appearance unscathed and despite the defeat on the night, Barras said he felt the team was now finding its feet and was ready for what he conceded would be tough league challenges ahead.

"Teams definitely raise themselves when they play us so it is always difficult," said the Town captain.

"That's especially the case when they come to our place and they see the ground and the pitch. They see that it's a great set up and it's their cup final, as they say.

"Things are definitely moving now and you can seen the confidence rising.

"We got off to a dodgy start and there have been a lot of players coming and going, but the manager has finally got close to the side he wants now.

"We are going really well at the minute and hopefully we'll continue that on Saturday because we are looking forward to it already."