Sonny Cox: Striker returned to Exeter City 'as a man' after loan spell

Sonny Cox scored Exeter's second goal in their 2-1 win over Carlisle United last week

Exeter City manager Gary Caldwell says striker Sonny Cox has returned "as a man" after his loan at Yeovil Town.

Cox, 19, has scored two goals in his past four League One games after returning from two months with the National League South side.

The highly-rated academy product has started three of the last four games since his injury-prompted recall.

"I was very conscious of how well he was doing at Yeovil," Caldwell told BBC Radio Devon.

"It is a big jump from National League South to League One and I didn't want to bring him back for selfish reasons and knock his development, but we almost had to do it because of the injuries and different things.

"But the difference from the player that left - I think he left a boy and has come back a man - and he has been a huge bonus for the football club and for the team."

Cox's return to the side has coincided with an upturn in form at St James Park as the Grecians have taken seven points from the past four games, having taken just two points from the previous 12 League One fixtures.

"They now see a number nine who they trust, who is holding the ball up, running channels and giving us a real outlet," added Caldwell.

"Like every other number nine you're judged on goals, and he's given us an output in goals as well.

"He's still a young player who will have difficult moments and will have ups and downs, we will have to support him, but at this moment in time he's flying high and it's great to see."