Aston Villa defender Wilfred Bouma has enjoyed a successful return to reserve-team action after eight months on the sidelines.

The Dutchman featured in Villa's 4-3 victory yesterday over Chelsea.

Bouma has revealed his delight at a return to action.

He told Aston Villa TV: "I was delighted to last longer than the 15 minutes I played against Odense in my last game at Villa Park. It was really great to be back.

"I managed to get a full 90 minutes under my belt and I'm glad my ankle held up and I didn't get any kind of reaction. That was pleasing.

"It was a good game to come back for because it was very high tempo. I have played 45 and 70 minutes in behind-closed-doors games but this was something different.

"It was a proper competitive match in front of supporters and it was great to be out there.

"What pleased me was that it felt so natural to be out there playing - even though I have been out of action for many months.

"I've had to be very, very patient because it was a nasty injury and I had to make sure I didn't rush back.

"My ankle has been a little uncomfortable at times - as you would expect - but it hasn't stopped me from training and playing. I'm just glad to be back."