Crystal Palace's Lee Hills ended almost two years of injury heartache when he made his debut for Southend United at Burton Albion on Saturday, writes Chris Phillips.
Hills, who joined the Shrimpers on loan for the rest of the season, has been out of action since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury at Derby County on April 17, 2010 - which left him fearing for his career.
“At one point I thought football was over for me,” said the 21-year-old.
“I couldn't even go up the stairs let alone kick a football so it was a horrible time for me.
“That's why I was so delighted to play again and getting the three points on Saturday made it a dream debut for me.”
Hills played 80 minutes as Southend beat Burton Albion 2-0 on Saturday and another 72 minutes as they drew 0-0 with Crawley Town on Monday.
“I needed to get some games again and that's why I jumped at the chance to come to Southend,” he added.
“I would've gone anywhere to play but I'm delighted to have come to such a great club.”
The switch has enabled Hills to again team up with his former Palace team-mate David Martin down the left hand side.
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