WITH Rapahel Branco returning from injury, competition for a place in Swindon’s back three is rife ahead of this weekend’s clash at Peterborough.

With both Yaser Kasim and Massimo Luongo both missing from last weekend’s derby clash on international duty, the Brazilians return to the starting XI was well timed.

With Jack Stephens moving up into the base of midfield Branco was able to slot straight in at the back and put in a sterling performance in what was a tough game to make his return.

With both Kasim and Luongo back available this weekend Mark Cooper will have to decide how to make things fit but the 24-year-old will not let it affect him.

“I think the pressure is for the gaffer not for the players,” he said.

“He has to put the 11 players to start and I think the players just have to train and show him we are ready to get a place and I am ready to start on Saturday.

“Obviously the gaffer has a decision to make.”

Branco has had a frustrating time on the sidelines since picking up a groin injury in the home tie with Sheffield United back in September.

On several occasions he tried to make a come-back but he took longer than expected to get over the niggle.

Since returning Branco has been thrown in at the deep end and that does not get any easier this weekend, but he is relishing the challenge.

“I wanted to be back,” he said.

“I tried when it was one month but I couldn’t, so it is hard for the player when you try to be back and you can’t.

“A groin injury is not easy because when you are walking you feel like it is good and it is not hurting so I am ready to be back but when you try training the pains come back, so every time I tried to be back I wasn’t 100 per cent, and I didn’t want to play if I wasn’t 100 per cent.

“I think it is better when you are back and you have the pressure on you because you prove yourself in a good challenge, so I prefer that situation.

“Each player is different, like I don’t feel match fitness I can be out for two months and come back and feel the same it depends on the player.”

Away from the first team out of favour Town midfielder Ryan Harley has joined Exeter on loan until January.

The 29-year-old had previously been training with Paul Disdale's side as he looked to earn a move away from the County Ground.

The midfielder has not featured at all this season and has scored one goal in 25 appearances since signing for the club in July 2013.