Striker Alex Johnson has hailed the return of Oli Johnson and hopes his fellow forward can help the Lions nail a play-off spot for a fifth season running.

The former Norwich City striker made his first substitute appearance in seven weeks on Saturday after injury and scored the equaliser just minutes after coming on before winning a penalty, which Nicky Boshell converted to ensure a 3-1 win over Brackley Town.

“It was a massive win for us, after the first half I don’t think we deserved to be 1-0 down,” AJ told Shummell Uddin.

“In the second half, when OJ came on, he brought something a bit different to the game and in the end it was an important three points for us.

“The return of OJ has come at a good time, he brings pace, skill and creates chances for the strikers so hopefully he can stay fit from now until the end of the season.”

AJ made only his seventh start of the season on Saturday due to injuries and, while he is yet to get off the mark, the former FC Halifax Town striker explained the mood is positive in the dressing room going into the final few games.

“Hopefully, I can get as many minutes as I can, I’ve still not scored this season and it just doesn’t seem to be happening for me but hopefully I can get a goal soon,” he added.

“I have had chances where I hit the crossbar or the keeper has pulled off saves, not forgetting the penalty miss. We’re winning games now and that’s the main thing. If we had lost [against Brackley] then we would have been on a bit of a downer but now we can train and concentrate on the upcoming games.

“Of course we need to get ourselves in the play-offs first and foremost, we still have eight games or so to go but anyone with OJ in the team has got a good chance of doing well in the play-offs.

“We go with confidence into any game, but I’m hopeful it will be our time this year. After all the play-off defeats this club has had, I think we’re due a win and to go up in style this season.”