JOE Skarz admits he has been a tough person to live with during a spell out Oxford United’s side.

But the left back hopes he has made head coach Michael Appleton’s life difficult after returning in midweek.

The 27-year-old has started just four games in 2017 after spending several weeks on the sidelines with a back injury.

Marvin Johnson’s form in his absence has left Skarz in the unusual position of watching as a substitute, having been one of the first names on the teamsheet for more than 18 months.

The defender has helped the U’s keep clean sheets on his last three appearances, including Tuesday night’s 1-0 win at Charlton Athletic.

Skarz hopes the display pushed his claims to stay in the side for tomorrow’s visit to Chesterfield, which would be a welcome boost for his family.

“When I’m not playing, I’m not a nice person to be around – my missus will vouch for that,” he said.

“I’m not going to lie, it’s been really difficult. It’s not something I enjoy, but you just have to take it.

“I’ve been working as hard as I can to make sure when I do get the opportunity I give myself the best possible chance to stay in the team.

“I came in for Rochdale and Newcastle, we won both games and then again on Tuesday. When I’m called upon I just want to do the best I can.”

Skarz has taken his frustration home, rather than let it have a negative impact on the squad.

He said: “I’ll go home and show the disappointment to my missus, rather than the lads.

“We’ll have a few arguments, but when I’m here, if I’m not playing, I’ve got to

respect the manager’s decision and support the lads all the time.

“When you win and you’re not playing you still get that good feeling but it’s not the same.

“It’s vitally important though that you show the lads you’re happy.”

Skarz has won promotion from Sky Bet League One through the play-offs with Rotherham United and is eyeing another charge.

While most have been keeping an eye on the gap to sixth place, his sights are higher.

He said: “We’ll go to Chesterfield looking to bridge that gap from fifth, never mind sixth, so there are two places up for grabs at the minute.”