Exeter's Mitchell wants to 'make up for lost time'

Demetri Mitchell has missed almost a year with a knee ligament injury

Exeter City winger Demetri Mitchell says he will "make up for lost time" after scoring on his comeback from injury.

The 27-year-old came on as a substitute to score the Grecians' late winner in their 3-2 EFL Trophy win at Bristol Rovers on Tuesday night.

His return to the pitch came 364 days after Mitchell suffered a knee ligament injury that sidelined the former Manchester United player.

"It's a great night just to be back playing with the lads," he told BBC Radio Devon.

"There were a lot of new teammates that I've not played with.

"Just to be touching the pitch on a game day is a special moment for me, not just the goal but just to be out there."

Demetri Mitchell had not played since limping off against Middlesbrough in the League Cup on 31 October 2023

Mitchell was hurt early in Exeter's EFL Cup fourth round loss to Middlesbrough last season.

It was a huge blow to the winger who had impressed since move to St James Park from Hibernian in January 2023.

But despite his injury Exeter offered Mitchell a new contract in the summer, and he is grateful to be able to show his talents once again:

"It was a nine to 12 month injury, that's what they told me when I had the operation," he added.

"I had a few hiccups along the way with my calf, it's been frustrating for me the supporters asking when I'm going to be back.

"I want to repay them as much as I want to repay the club for showing their faith in me for re-signing me this season.

"I've lost out on a few games at the start of the season, but I'm going to make up for a bit of lost time now."