Lawrence's last Premier League appearance came in September

Stoke City midfielder Liam Lawrence said Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup defeat at Hartlepool spoiled his return from a three-month injury lay-off.

Lawrence came off the bench at Victoria Park to make his first appearance since injuring his ankle in September.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "It's mixed emotions. I've made my comeback but we've lost so I'm very annoyed.

"I was glad to get on, but it was a bit tiring. I didn't get much of the ball but when I did I thought I did OK."

The 27-year-old required surgery on the injury which was sustained when he tripped over his pet Labrador dog.

He said it has been frustrating to be sidelined by such a bizarre injury.

"To have to sit out and watch for the last three months has been doing my head in," said Lawrence.

"It's been the worst part of my career so far, but I'm back now and glad to be involved again."

The defeat at Hartlepool ended a miserable week for the Potters, who had Ricardo Fuller sent-off for slapping captain Andy Griffin in last weekend's 2-1 defeat at West Ham.

However Lawrence said he has returned to a unified dressing room.

"The spirit is still good," said Lawrence. "We've got a good set of lads who are all very level-headed.

"But we do realise we have a problem that needs putting right and I'm sure we'll do that," he added.

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