PAUL Anderson could supply the X Factor to City’s play-off bid, according to Phil Parkinson.

The winger made his first-team return as a late sub in Saturday’s win at Southend – nearly scoring with a shot that clipped the top of the bar.

It was Anderson’s first outing for seven months since breaking his leg against Peterborough.

His comeback, following that of Filipe Morais, coincides with City securing their place in the play-offs.

Anderson’s last goal came in the Championship play-off semi-finals a year ago for Ipswich against East Anglian rivals Norwich.

And Parkinson believes he can make a difference for City going into the League One climax.

He said: “I thought he was class when he came on. But don’t forget Ando was in the play-offs this time last year in the Championship.

“What a player he is to come back in to the fold for us.”

It has been a big month for Anderson who became a father for the first time just over a fortnight ago when fiancée Aelish gave birth to son Joel.

Parkinson added: “He’s been a bit unlucky and missed a few games recently. But he’s a great lad with so much experience and he’s got real quality.”

The City boss admits it is a bonus to have Anderson and Morais in the reckoning after their lengthy spells out the squad because of serious injury. Parkinson did not expect to see either of them.

“They have been great in terms of how hard they’ve worked,” he added.

“We’d really ruled them out for the season. But their dedication and professionalism has got them back sooner rather than later.

“I thought Filipe did great again on Saturday although he tired towards the end. He showed real quality and he’s playing that number ten role so well.”

City are back in training this morning after two days off to unwind after making sure of a play-off berth.

Parkinson said: “We’ve worked hard to get there and we will relish every minute.

“We can patch up a few players this week who’ve got knocks and get ready for an exciting period.

“They are a terrific group of lads who are fighting for the club every step of the way.

“The spirit in that dressing room is as good as we’ve had since I’ve been here. You can see the leadership we’ve got on the pitch.”