Michael Timlin: 'I was ready for playoff game against Stevenage despite wound'

Southend United midfielder Michael Timlin has expressed his annoyance at having to come off in the first leg of their League Two playoff semi-final against Stevenage, but is happy that he was able to return for the second leg.

The 30-year-old, who collided with Stevenage captain Bira Dembele when competing for a header in Sunday's 1-1 draw at the Lamex Stadium, left the field bandaged and covered in blood before having a number of stitches inserted in a wound above his eye.

He returned for the second leg at Roots Hall, however, and went on to score in the final stages of his side's 3-1 win to put the game beyond Graham Westley's charges.

Timlin told Sky Sports News after the game: "We had so many chances it was one of those days when we didn't think we were going to get it. Credit to Stevenage, they battled really well. I think we deserved it and we showed the character that we have got.

"I was annoyed when I had to come off in the first leg but I was always going to make sure I was ready for this. It was a bigger game than me and I wouldn't have played if I didn't think I was 100%."

Southend will travel to Wembley on May 23 to take on Wycombe Wanderers for the right to play in League One next season.