Brooks Lennon discusses long-awaited return for Atlanta United | OneFootball

For the first time since June 19 and after missing nine matches, Atlanta United full-back Brooks Lennon finally returned to the field on Saturday.

The United States international was introduced in the 59th minute of the Five Stripes' 2-2 draw with FC Cincinnati with his side 2-1 down at the time and pushing for an equalizer.

Lennon certainly played his part in helping pile pressure on the hosts, attempting seven crosses, while he was steady throughout with a 95% pass completion rate, two clearances, and two recoveries.

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It's been a long road back to fitness for Lennon following a knee injury sustained during the warm-up for Atlanta's 2-1 defeat away at Toronto FC and the 24-year-old offered some insight into that process following Saturday's draw in Ohio.

"Obviously, it was a grind being out. You never want to be out injured," Lennon told reporters. "I’m proud of myself, the way I worked with the trainers, the physios and to be able to come back and feel as fit as I did today. Great to be back with the team today and good to get a tie away from home, especially to come from behind a goal. So, I’m very happy to be back.”

Lennon's injury was the result of a freak accident while preparing for that match at BMO Field, but the player isn't bitter about the situation. If anything, he's stronger for the experience.

“Everything happens in life for a reason. I really believe that," Lennon added. "Like I said, I’m proud [of] how I handled the situation. I slipped. It just happens in life. I’m back and it’s full-court press the rest of the season for us to pick up as many points as we can to make the playoffs.”

Atlanta United are currently 13th in the Eastern Conference, but just four points adrift of the MLS Cup Playoffs spots with one game less played than most of their rivals. Up next for Gonzalo Pineda's side is a home tie with the New York Red Bulls on Wednesday.