Tooting & Mitcham striker Paul Vines says he is still short of full fitness despite making his return from injury in Saturday's 2-0 win over Corinthian Casuals.

The prolific hotshot was sidelined for a month after damaging ankle ligaments in an Isthmian League Cup victory over Whyteleafe.

He was a late substitute in the weekend win, secured by goals from Jason Pinnock and Jacob Erskine, a result that keeps the Terrors hot on the heels of Ryman Division One South leaders Dover Athletic.

And, while Vines is happy to be back, he claimes he is not quite ready to resume setting the league alight just yet.

"It's good to be back but the ankle is still a bit sore," he said.

"I took a knock on it pretty much straight after coming on, which obviously did not help. I think maybe I was over eager to get back.

"I had my first full session last Thursday, so I think the ankle still might be a little bit weak."

Billy Smith's men endured their first blip of the campaign during Vines's enforced lay-off, but the 24-year-old denied it was down to his absence.

"It was disappointing to have that blip but I think we needed that kick up the backside," he said.

"It had nothing to do with me not playing - I just think we were not playing to our full potential as a squad.

"Watching is not a good thing for me - I really don't like it.

"We went through a bit of blip when I was out and that was difficult because there's nothing you can do to help your team mates.

"Then we picked up and that's frustrating because you want to be part of a team that is doing well."

The Terrors travel to Leatherhead on Saturday.