Julian Bennett has successfully hit the comeback trail after more than a year on the sidelines.

The Nottingham Forest defender played for 45 minutes of a behind-closed-doors friendly against Coventry this afternoon.

It was Bennett's first taste of match action since suffering a serious knee ligament injury against Doncaster on Boxing Day 2008.

Bennett said: "It felt so good to be out there playing again. I really enjoyed it and didn't feel at all nervous beforehand.

"The knee feels fine. I just need to work on my match fitness but that will come with time."

Bennett added: "The last 14 months or so has been tough because all I want to do is play football.

"It has made me appreciate the game even more and realise how fortunate I am."

Click here to see Bennett in action and the full interview on Forest Player.