Crewe Alexandra striker Omar Bogle has made a triumphant return to the field, scoring in his first appearance of the season during Saturday's League Two win over Shrewsbury.

The 32-year-old player, who has been sidelined due to illness, insists he is "back and ready to go."

Bogle was brought on with just three minutes of normal time remaining in the match.

He needed only six minutes to find the net, securing a 3-1 win for Crewe Alexandra and propelling the team back to within touching distance of the League Two playoffs.

Despite receiving a yellow card for excessive celebration, Bogle was happy to accept it.

Bogle said: "That was a long time of frustration and disappointment. It was just a release and something that I've been thinking about and working towards for the last few months. A big relief. I'm back and ready to go."

Last season, Bogle scored five times in 30 league appearances after moving to Gresty Road from Newport.

However, illness ruled him out of pre-season games, and he missed the first 17 games of the current campaign.

Upon his return, he faced increased competition to regain his place in the squad, as can often be a problem for sidelined players in football today.

Bogle added: "There's competition everywhere, so it's not even just about competing to get in the side, it's about competing to get in the squad now, which is what you need. I've been working hard since I've been back, and everyone's seen that.

"I feel good and getting back to my best self, physically and mentally."

Bogle's journey through the leagues has been marked by several loan moves and short spells with various clubs.

He became a £1million player in 2017 when Cardiff shelled out seven figures to bring him in from Wigan.

After stints with Charlton, Doncaster, and Hartlepool, two successful seasons with Newport, Bogle caught the eye of Crewe boss Lee Bell, who has been full of praise for Bogle's hard work and attitude.

Omar Bogle's return to action has been a testament to his resilience and determination.

His comeback goal not only lifted Crewe Alexandra back into the playoff places but also signalled his readiness to contribute to the team's success in the remainder of the season.