AFTER a torturous start to life at Swindon Town, Alan O’Brien is ecstatic at finally feeling fully fit, and hopes he can contribute to a Robins charge to Wembley.

The Irishman, who has been plagued by injury problems since his switch from Hibernian in the summer, started for just the fourth time in the red of Town in the 2-1 defeat of Charlton Athletic on Friday.

And, should he be called upon by boss Danny Wilson to play a role at The Valley this evening, O’Brien is desperate to repay the faith shown in him by the Swindon fans and management team during his struggles.

“I’m delighted to be back and involved in it,” he said.

“I just want to forget about the season I’ve had and look forward. If I get picked again on Monday then I can only hope to do my best, with a little bit more quality in certain areas at certain times.”

By his own admission, O’Brien was not completely on top of his game at times in the home clash with the Addicks on Friday.

But the Republic of Ireland international insists a lengthy spell without any niggles is bound to see him rediscover the form which convinced Wilson and Andrew Fitton to buy him out of his previous contract in Scotland.

And with Billy Paynter uncertain to start tonight, O’Brien is grateful for the opportunity to prove his worth.

“I probably should have done a bit better but I did well in parts so I’m happy,” he said.

“I’ve been out for five months, so I can’t expect to come back first game and be a world-beater.

“I’ve felt really sharp in training, and I was delighted to get a chance again and in such a big game.

“(The injury to Paynter) is the sort of the chance that people in my situation need. I’m not going to get straight back in the team because all the boys have been playing really well.

“I’m just happy the gaffer gave me the chance, and I hope I didn’t let him down.”